Dhaka, Dec 29 (V7N) — Today marks the final day for collecting and submitting nomination papers for the 13th National Parliament Election. Since Monday morning, candidates along with party leaders, activists, and supporters have been gathering at the offices of Returning and Assistant Returning Officers in districts across the country.

Nomination papers have been submitted on behalf of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia in the Bogra-7 constituency. Party leaders and activists submitted the papers at the Returning Officer’s office and sought prayers for her speedy recovery, considering her current health condition.

BNP leaders said that, due to Khaleda Zia’s illness, Gabtoli Upazila BNP President Morshed Milton is scheduled to submit his nomination papers as an alternative candidate in Bogra-7.

Nomination papers are also scheduled to be submitted today on behalf of Khaleda Zia in the Feni-1 constituency, where BNP has also decided to keep an alternative candidate. Earlier, nomination papers were submitted on her behalf in Dinajpur-3, and former mayor Jahangir Alam is set to submit his papers today as the alternative candidate there.

Meanwhile, nomination papers have been submitted for BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman in the Bogra-6 constituency. Party leaders and activists said that workers, supporters, and general voters in the constituency are enthusiastic about his candidacy and expressed hope that he would secure a landslide victory.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir submitted his nomination papers in the Thakurgaon-1 constituency on Monday afternoon at the Returning Officer’s office. Local party leaders and activists were present during the submission.

On the other hand, Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar submitted his nomination papers in the Khulna-5 constituency in the morning. Speaking at the time, he expressed concerns about the possibility of holding a free and fair election.

Across the country, candidates from political parties as well as independent candidates have been submitting nomination papers since morning, accompanied by their supporters. There is widespread expectation among candidates and voters for a peaceful, inclusive, and fair election.

According to the announced schedule, scrutiny of nomination papers will take place from December 30 to January 4. The final list of candidates will be published after the withdrawal deadline on January 20. Election campaigning will officially begin following the allocation of election symbols on January 21, while voting is scheduled for February 12.

Meanwhile, nomination-related activities remain busy in constituencies across the country as candidates rush to complete the final formalities within the stipulated deadline.

END/SMA/AJ