Nagorik Oikya’s Manna promises not to object if NCP secures ‘Shapla’ symbol

He extends the favour to NCP due to their age and contribution to the July Uprising

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Nagorik Oikya Convenor Mahmudur Rahman Manna has promised not to object if the Election Commission allocates the “Shapla” symbol to the National Citizen Party.

Both the Nagorik Oikya and NCP sought the Shapla symbol during their registration process. But the EC has refused, saying Shapla is part of the national emblem and cannot be assigned to any political party.

On Tuesday, the commission asked NCP to pick another symbol from the approved list, suggesting alternatives such as “dish and bowl” and “inkpot with pen”, sparking criticism from the party.

Speaking at a Nagorik Oikya event in Sirajganj on Thursday, Manna said: “I asked for Shapla but was told it is a national emblem. If that’s the reason I was denied, then no one else should get it either.”

He divulged having discussions on the topic with NCP, adding that he has a soft spot for the party due to its members’ age, their experience, its position in the July Uprising, and in deposing Sheikh Hasina.

“If the EC gives Shapla to NCP, I promise I won’t file any case,” he said.

Manna, who currently leads his party under the kettle symbol, admitted he still finds Shapla “a beautiful electoral symbol”.

He also reiterated his position in a Facebook post, writing: “If they (NCP) are given the Shapla, I will not go to court.”