The Election Commission (EC) has given a positive nod to register the newly formed National Citizen Party (NCP) but a symbolic showdown looms, as the party refuses to accept any emblem other than the water lily, in either white or red.
Following a high-level meeting with Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Monday, NCP leaders emerged optimistic about formal recognition but firm on their demand for the iconic floral symbol.
“Good news is coming, the EC has taken a positive stance on our registration,” said NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwari. “However, we are clear: we want the Shapla (water lily). White Shapla or red Shapla — any of these. If we are not allotted one of them, we will take the next step.”
The NCP’s insistence on water lily is no casual preference. Party leaders view it as a powerful cultural and national emblem, one they believe resonates deeply with voters.
This is the second time the party has formally applied for the symbol, having previously requested the white and red variants alongside the standard one.
However, the EC has yet to approve any version of the water lily symbol for use.
According to officials, the current list of approved election symbols, which is under review by the Law Ministry for potential amendment, does not include water lily in any form.
“While we’re encouraged by the progress on registration, no decision has been made on the symbol,” an EC source confirmed, speaking on background. “The symbol list is still pending final vetting.”
The NCP, undeterred, says it has always been confident about securing registration but warns that without the water lily, its electoral identity may be compromised.