DHAKA — The fate of party symbols for mayoral candidates in Bangladesh’s local government elections hinges on a decision from the newly convened 13th parliament, Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud said Sunday.

Masud told reporters the commission awaits parliamentary action on an ordinance that stripped party nominations from city corporation mayoral races. “To my knowledge, the ordinance removed the provision for party nominations for mayoral candidates,” he said. “Parliament will now convene, and if this ordinance is ratified, elections will be held accordingly. If it is amended and the previous provision is restored, the process will be different.”

With the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) commanding an overwhelming majority in the House, officials expect the ruling party’s position to dictate the outcome. The BNP’s dominance means it can push through ratification or amendments with little opposition.

Masud’s comments came amid preparations for city corporation polls, where voter recognition of party symbols could sway results. Local elections often draw heavy turnout, and candidates have long relied on established party banners to rally support.

Separately, the commissioner detailed progress on filling parliament’s reserved seats for women. “The process has effectively begun,” he said. Parties with representation in the 13th parliament will nominate candidates, who will then be elected unopposed under current rules.

Political parties have kicked off preliminary nomination work, according to Masud. The commission must complete these elections within 90 days of lawmakers’ swearing-in. Officials pledged to stick to that timeline.

The reserved seats total 50, allocated proportionally based on parties’ strength in directly elected seats. The BNP, as the largest bloc, stands to claim the lion’s share.

Masud also touched on postponed by-elections, though he offered few specifics. The commission plans to address scheduling once parliament settles key ordinances like the one on mayoral symbols.

Bangladesh’s election calendar remains packed. City corporation polls loom large, with potential knock-on effects for national politics. Restoring party symbols could energize BNP campaigns, while ratification of the ordinance might force independents or alliances to adapt strategies.

Parliament convened recently after the BNP-led coalition swept the January general election. Lawmakers face a slate of ordinances issued by the interim government, including changes to election laws. Masud emphasized the commission’s readiness to implement whatever parliament decides.

Political observers watch closely. Party symbols have defined Bangladesh’s urban elections for years, helping voters align choices with national affiliations. Their removal via ordinance sparked debate during the transition period.

The Election Commission, an independent body, coordinates all polls under the constitution. Masud’s update signals coordination between electoral and legislative branches as Bangladesh stabilizes post-election.