Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has submitted an 18-point set of proposals to the Election Commission (EC) aimed at ensuring a free, fair, and participatory 13th National Parliamentary Election. Among the key proposals, the party has called for the introduction of a national referendum mechanism on major national issues.A seven-member Jamaat delegation, led by Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar, held a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A. M. M. Nasir Uddin and other election commissioners at the EC headquarters in Agargaon at 12:10 p.m. on Tuesday (October 28).
Following the nearly two-hour-long discussion, Mia Golam Porwar briefed reporters around 2:15 p.m., detailing the party’s recommendations and observations.
Criticism of BNP and Concerns Over Level Playing Field
Addressing the media, Porwar criticized the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), saying that signs of a “broken level playing field” have already emerged four months ahead of the election.
“We have urged the Election Commission to stand firm on matters where the government has already taken a decision,” he said.
Jamaat termed BNP’s objection to the recent amendment to the Representation of the People Order (RPO) — which requires political parties in an alliance to contest elections under their own symbols — as “unfortunate.”
According to Jamaat, attempts to alter the amendment through “gentlemen’s agreements” would set a dangerous precedent and undermine electoral fairness.
“Such moves are alarming and a bad signal for a fair election,” Porwar said, adding that Jamaat demanded the amended provision remain in force.
Reaction to BNP’s Stance on Financial Institutions
Responding to a question about BNP’s reported objection to officials being recruited from institutions like Islami Bank, the Jamaat leader called the stance “regrettable and politically inappropriate.”
“None of the institutions mentioned are owned or controlled by Jamaat-e-Islami,” Porwar said. “Issuing counter-statements or lists against such organizations is not a sign of political decency.”
Context of the RPO Amendment Debate
Earlier, on Sunday (October 26), the BNP informed the Election Commission that it does not agree with the recent RPO amendment making it mandatory for alliance members to use their own electoral symbols rather than a common one.
BNP submitted a formal letter to the CEC demanding that the previous provision be reinstated, allowing allied parties to contest under a shared symbol.
BNP Chairperson’s Adviser Md. Ismail Jabirullah said:
“No political party proposed this amendment. The decision was made without consultation, and it infringes upon democratic rights.”
He added that the BNP considers the amendment unacceptable, arguing that the change was made unilaterally and goes against the principles of coalition politics in a democratic system.
Jamaat’s Broader Message
Jamaat’s delegation emphasized that a truly inclusive election requires dialogue, transparency, and respect for all registered political parties. The party also called on the EC to ensure a neutral administration, equal campaign opportunities, and international monitoring during the polls.