The Election Commission (EC) has issued a gazette notification amending the Conduct of Elections Rules 2008, formally suspending the allocation of the "Boat" symbol—traditionally registered to the banned Bangladesh Awami League—and reintroducing a "No" vote option on ballots for single-candidate parliamentary constituencies.

The gazette notification was published by the Election Commission Secretariat on Wednesday (September 16) night.

Pursuant to powers conferred under Article 94 of the Representation of the People Order (RPO), 1972, the EC amended Sub-rule (1) of Rule 9. Under the revised framework, symbols designated as "suspended" in the EC schedule cannot be allocated to any contesting candidate during elections.

Key Electoral Amendments and Procedural Changes

Alongside the symbol suspension and the inclusion of the "No" vote option for uncontested seats, the gazette outlines several procedural modifications regarding candidate affidavits, criminal disclosures, and financial management:

• Affidavit Requirements for Dependents: Mandatory submission of tax return information for a candidate's spouse, children, and financial dependents has been made optional.

• Clarification on 'Accused' Status: The definition of an "accused" candidate under Clause 3(C) has been narrowed to apply strictly to individuals against whom a court has formally framed charges.

• Bail Documentation Rules: Requirements to submit certified court copies of bail orders for candidates currently out on bail have been simplified. Candidates currently incarcerated may submit affidavits and nomination papers verified directly by prison authorities.

• Campaign Financing Operations: Amendments to Part III of Form-1 under Schedule-1 allow candidates to operate designated election expense accounts through their appointed election agents in addition to their personal bank accounts.

The Election Commission confirmed that the amended provisions take immediate effect and will govern the upcoming national parliamentary elections.