Allies of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) are set to meet on Wednesday in Dhaka’s Paltan area amid growing unease over seat-sharing arrangements for the upcoming 13th national election. The meeting, to be held at the Nagorik Oikya office, will include leaders from Ganatantra Mancha, the 12-Party Alliance, Gana Odhikar Parishad, Jatiyatabadi Samomona Jote, Nezame Islami Party, and Gano Forum, among others.

The gathering follows BNP’s announcement of candidates for 272 parliamentary constituencies, leaving 28 seats unallocated, which the party says are mostly reserved for allies. However, several alliance members have expressed frustration, claiming BNP declared its candidate lists without prior consultation. Some unregistered allies reportedly sought nominations under BNP’s symbol but were excluded. BNP sources insist the party values its partners and aims to resolve the dispute while maintaining unity.

The Election Commission is expected to announce the official election schedule this week, intensifying political maneuvering among opposition blocs seeking to present a united front against the ruling Awami League.