A fresh row has erupted over electoral symbols as the National Citizen Party (NCP) has rejected the newly introduced “water lily bud” symbol, insisting instead on a full-bloomed water lily.
The Election Commission (EC) on Thursday, October 30, added the “water lily bud” to its list of registered symbols.
Shortly after the announcement, NCP Central Joint Member Secretary Advocate Zahirul Islam Musa voiced the party’s objection.
“We want the water lily, not the water lily bud,” he said. “The EC previously claimed that the water lily couldn’t be included. But now that the bud has been added, there is no reason the full flower can’t be.”
He added that the NCP is not considering any alternative symbol. “We will only accept the water lily—not the bud.”
The EC has yet to comment on whether the party’s demand will be considered.