NCP again pushes EC to factor Khaleda’s illness into election timeline

The BNP leaders, however, insist her condition is unrelated to election timing

The National Citizen Party (NCP) has renewed calls for the Election Commission to factor in the critical illness of BNP chief Khaleda Zia when finalising the schedule for the general election slated for February.

At a policy discussion on Friday titled “The Future of Investment in Bangladesh” at a Dhaka hotel, NCP Convener Nahid Islam urged the commission to take into account the BNP’s internal circumstances before formally announcing the election timeline.

“Since the election is expected in February and a date has been set, the schedule is typically issued 45 to 60 days in advance, there is still some flexibility,” Nahid said in response to a question. “We have suggested that, given the health of a key political party leader, their internal situation should also be considered. This will allow all parties to begin their electoral campaigns smoothly once the schedule is announced.”

He expressed hope that the Election Commission would consult with "that political party" before issuing the schedule.

Nahid said he did not expect the election date to be shifted for any particular party. “We have long said that reforms, justice, and then the election process should move forward.

“Our position was repeatedly described as anti-election, as if we wanted the election delayed. We never said that.”

“We have reached a stage in the reform process,” he added. “Judicial steps have begun. Now we must move towards the election. What we have said is that the commission should bring all parties together as the electoral journey begins.

“The process should not stall for any particular party. Their leader is unwell, and we have sympathy for that. We simply urged the commission to consider it. But we expect the election to take place on time.”

Nahid rejected claims that the NCP had entered into any “open or secret” understanding with anyone, saying such allegations were part of a smear campaign.

He added that the party was preparing for the polls in line with its own political agenda and was close to finalising its list of candidates.

Earlier on Wednesday, after a meeting with the Chief Election Commissioner, Nahid had made a similar request, saying: “The EC has not given us a clear answer on the schedule.

“The commission told the media that it may come within the next two weeks. We have asked them to issue the schedule while keeping the current political situation in mind.”

BNP leaders, however, have dismissed any suggestion that Khaleda’s illness should influence the timing of the election. Despite the gravity of her condition, they insist it is not being used as a political bargaining chip.

“The election stands where it stands. Her illness has nothing to do with the timing of the polls,” said Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Friday. “In fact, she is the one who wants elections the most, to restore democracy in Bangladesh.”

The Election Commission has yet to comment on whether Khaleda’s health will factor into the final decision on the election schedule.