Bangladesh govt mandates party symbol for alliance candidates

Bangladesh authorities released new election regulations on Tuesday requiring coalition candidates to campaign under their individual party emblems rather than shared alliance symbols.

The Law Ministry ordinance modified Article 20 of the Representation of the People Order, ending a practice that previously allowed smaller coalition members to adopt logos from larger partner organizations during campaigns. Multiple candidates had secured legislative seats using this arrangement under earlier provisions. Several opposition groups objected to the change immediately after its publication.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party submitted formal complaints to the Chief Election Commissioner requesting restoration of the prior language. Party officials argued that the adjustment disadvantages minor coalition participants who benefited from recognition associated with established political brands. Past regulations permitted registered alliances to select any participating group’s emblem for campaign purposes, giving flexibility to joint ticket arrangements.