Dhaka, Jan 02 (V7N) – The Election Commission (EC) is currently busy scrutinising nomination papers submitted by candidates for the upcoming 13th National Parliament Election. The verification process will continue until January 4, according to EC sources.

The scrutiny is being carried out at the Election Commission Secretariat, Divisional Commissioners’ offices, and district-level offices across the country. The process continued even on Friday (January 2), despite it being a public holiday.

A total of 2,569 nomination papers have been submitted by 51 registered political parties as well as independent candidates in this election.

EC officials said the verification process began simultaneously from Friday morning in the capital, divisional headquarters and district offices. During scrutiny, nomination papers are being examined in accordance with electoral laws and procedures.

A candidate’s nomination may be declared invalid if:

  • Required conditions in the nomination form are not fulfilled,

  • Necessary supporting documents are missing, or

  • More than one percent of the submitted voters’ signatures are found to be incorrect or unverifiable.

Candidates whose nomination papers are cancelled during the scrutiny process will have the opportunity to appeal to the Election Commission between January 5 and January 9. After resolving all appeals, the EC will publish the final list of valid candidates.

According to the announced election schedule, candidates will be able to withdraw their candidacy until January 20. Following this, electoral symbols will be allocated, and the official election campaign for the 13th National Parliament Election will formally begin.

END/SMA/AJ