Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, the Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has officially handed over the “Scales” (Daripalla)—the unified electoral symbol of the 10-party alliance—to Nahid Islam, the convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP).
The symbolic handover took place on Thursday afternoon (January 22) during an election rally held at Adarsha High School in Mirpur-10, marking the start of the alliance’s campaign for the upcoming national polls.
A Unified Symbol: Scales and Lily Bud
Speaking at the rally, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman clarified the visual representation of the symbol for this specific constituency. While the alliance’s primary symbol remains the “Scales,” he introduced a unique interpretation for the NCP leader’s campaign.
“Today, I am handing over the Scales to others, but to Nahid Islam, I am giving the ‘Scales with the Bud’ (Palla-Koli),” the Jamaat Ameer stated.
Indicating the top portion of the traditional scales, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman added, “You see the scales here, and at the top, there is a bud (Koli). You will consider this the Shapla Koli (Water Lily Bud). For the voters of Dhaka-11, we are handing over this symbol of justice alongside the Shapla Koli to Nahid Islam.”
Context of the Alliance
The National Citizen Party, formed by leaders of the July Revolution, has entered into a strategic electoral arrangement with the 10-party alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami. Under this agreement:
- Nahid Islam is contesting from the Dhaka-11 constituency.
- The alliance is using the Scales as a “coordinated symbol” across various seats to show unity.
- The campaign period officially began today (January 22) and will continue until February 10, ahead of the general election scheduled for February 12, 2026.
During his speech, Nahid Islam emphasized the need for a fair election, warning that the Election Commission must remain neutral. He also reiterated that the alliance would not tolerate any “vote-rigging” or the participation of individuals involved in past corruption.
