Symbol Allocation Begins, Candidates Set to Launch Campaigns

The allocation of election symbols for candidates has begun ahead of the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, marking the formal start of the final phase of the electoral process. The distribution commenced on Wednesday morning at 9:30 AM.

Following the completion of symbol allocation, candidates are expected to begin their field-level campaigns from Thursday. This will officially roll the election and referendum campaign into full swing, continuing until 48 hours before polling day.

After the withdrawal of nominations, the total number of candidates contesting the election now stands at 1,967. A total of 305 candidates withdrew their nominations across 298 constituencies by appearing before the respective Returning Officers.

According to the election code of conduct, political parties and candidates are required to adhere strictly to the campaign timeline. Campaigning is permitted only within the designated three-week period prior to polling and must cease 48 hours before voting begins.

Earlier, December 29 marked the final date for submitting nomination papers, with 2,585 aspirants filing nominations. Following scrutiny, 726 nominations were rejected, leaving 1,858 valid candidates. Of those who appealed, 431 successfully regained their candidacy.

Due to ongoing legal complications, candidate finalization in the Pabna-1 and Pabna-2 constituencies remains pending, which may further increase the total number of contestants across all 300 seats.