Dhaka: Chief Whip of Parliament Nurul Islam Moni declared on Tuesday that Members of Parliament are restricted from voting against their party’s decision in the upcoming presidential election scheduled for August 20, as Article 70 of the Constitution remains unchanged. This announcement was made during a press briefing at the Media Centre of Parliament after a preparatory meeting for the 2026 presidential election held in the Cabinet Room of Parliament.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the preparatory meeting was chaired by Acting Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal and attended by key figures including Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam and Whips Md G K Gouse, Rakibul Islam Bakul, Mia Nuruddin Ahmed Apu, Md Akhtaruzzaman Mia, and A B M Ashraf Uddin Nizan. During the meeting, Acting Speaker Kamal emphasized the importance of liberating the state structure from fascism, noting that the upcoming 2026 presidential election marks a historic moment in this endeavor.
The meeting addressed essential preparations for the election, such as utilizing the Jatiya Sangsad chamber, providing logistical support, and ensuring MP attendance. The Election Commission has announced that the election will take place in the Parliament chamber on Thursday, August 20, with the Chief Election Commissioner serving as the returning officer per the Presidential Election Act of 1991.
Chief Whip Nurul Islam also noted at the press conference that the BNP has yet to finalize its candidate for the presidential election, leaving the decision in the hands of the Prime Minister. Meanwhile, the opposition has already selected a candidate, and efforts are underway to ensure a transparent election process.
Voting is set to occur in the Parliament chamber between 2pm and 5pm on August 20. MPs will cast their votes according to their division and seat number, with provisions made for an early declaration of results if all 349 votes are cast within the first hour. The votes of key figures such as the (Acting) President, Leader of the House, Leader of the Opposition, and (Acting) Speaker will be broadcast live, with potential live coverage extending to vote counting and result declaration.
Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam expressed concerns about the election process, stating that it should align with the ‘July Charter’ to enhance the acceptance and dignity of the elected president. He emphasized the opposition’s stance against an uncontested election and highlighted their candidate, Col (Retd) Oli Ahmed, as the most suitable choice for the presidency. The opposition has advocated for broader freedoms under Article 70, proposing additional exceptions to allow MPs to express their views freely on constitutional amendments and national security during war situations.