The Bangladesh Election Commission has made a significant move by removing the lotus symbol from its official list of electoral symbols. This decision is expected to have repercussions as the nation gears up for general elections in February 2026, following a recent change in government. The NCP, with Nahid Islam at the helm, had requested to use the lotus symbol.
In Bangladesh, the lotus, known as ‘Shapla’, is the national flower and carries significant historical and cultural weight. The flower was widely promoted during the independence movement. The NCP’s interest in the symbol stems from its widespread recognition and potential to establish the party as a prominent nationalist force. The Election Commission has stated that since the symbol is not on their list, it cannot be allocated.