Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has distanced itself from Election Commission’s decision to reinstate ‘no vote’ option in the upcoming national polls, saying the measure was not based on its proposal.

“This was not our demand. The initiative came from recommendations made by some eminent individuals. We have no position on it,” BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan told reporters after meeting Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin in Dhaka on Saturday.

The BNP delegation, which included Chairperson’s Adviser Ismail Jabiullah and Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, met the CEC at the commission headquarters in Agargaon, with discussions lasting nearly two hours.

Nazrul Islam Khan also shared the party’s views stating the EC appears to be making proper preparations for the polls. “However, we are somewhat concerned about the current law and order situation. We hope the situation will normalize in the coming months before the election,” Khan stated.

According to him, the EC assured that it may request additional deployment of army personnel as well as Coast Guard and Navy in coastal areas if necessary.

The BNP also emphasized the need for a peaceful political environment during the election.

On the issue of voting rights for expatriates, Khan said discussions took place following BNP’s demand. The EC is considering allowing Bangladeshis with national ID cards and e-passports to vote, while BNP has urged the inclusion of ordinary passport holders as well, subject to strict verification to prevent fraud.

Regarding constituency demarcation, he noted that the EC is working based on geographical integrity of districts and upazilas, along with voter distribution. “Under the law, only aggrieved individuals, not political parties, can file complaints over boundary changes,” he explained.

Khan further confirmed that BNP has submitted its views on the draft electoral code of conduct sent by the EC, which is currently under review.

Responding to a question about the “no vote” option under the Representation of the People Order (RPO), he clarified: “This was not BNP’s proposal. If the EC introduces any changes, we will discuss the matter internally before giving a stance.”

When asked about remarks by another political leader suggesting elections might not be held in February, he declined to comment, saying: “The EC is preparing for the polls, and the Chief Adviser has said the election will be held. The question should be asked to him.”

On seat-sharing within opposition alliances, Khan said no formal discussion has yet taken place, as the election schedule has not been announced.

However, he noted that parties which worked together in the joint movement are expected to cooperate if entrusted with governance.