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women’s seats is scheduled for May 12. Of the 50 seats, one is allocated for every six general members of parliament. Based on current numbers, the BNP-led alliance is expected to secure 36 seats, the Jamaat alliance 13, and independents one.

The Election Commission has set April 21 as the deadline for submission of nomination papers. Scrutiny will take place on April 22 and 23, followed by an appeal window on April 26.

Appeals will be disposed of on April 27 and 28. The last date for withdrawal of candidature is April 29, and election symbols will be allotted on April 30.

Referring to the large number of nomination seekers, Rizvi said expectations were high after what he described as a “long and difficult struggle” over the past 16 to 17 years.

“There has been a prolonged fight to restore a free and fair electoral environment. After many years, an opportunity has come to practise democratic norms, and we must use it properly,” he said.

Rizvi warned that any form of misconduct would invite organisational action.

“No kind of indiscipline or inappropriate behaviour will be tolerated within the party,” he said.