EC preparing to hold local govt elections in October

The Election Commission (EC) is preparing to hold local government elections in October. However, no official announcement will be made without discussions with the government, Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud has said.

He made the remarks at an event at the Election Building in Agargaon, capital, on Monday, July 6.

Abdur Rahmanel Masud said decisions regarding local government elections will be made based on both written and unwritten discussions with the government. The EC is continuing its preparations keeping October in mind.

He said if elections are held in October, the schedule must be announced approximately 45 days in advance, and necessary preparations are being made accordingly.

The election commissioner said no decision has been made yet on which election will be held first. However, considering legal and practical aspects, it would be logical to start with union parishad or municipality elections. He noted that city corporations are currently being run by administrators.

Highlighting the need for coordination with the government, he said various matters, including boundary demarcation, are linked to the government. Therefore, elections must be organised based on discussions and understanding with the government, given the reality and legal requirements.

He further said it is not possible to hold all local government elections simultaneously. The schedule will be announced after discussions with the government on which election would benefit the public more if held first.

Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Mohammad Sanaullah informed that the commission has started all necessary preparations for holding local government elections. From next week, the EC Senior Secretary will regularly brief the media on the progress.

He said the draft code of conduct for the elections has already been published on the commission's website. Opinions received on this are being reviewed, and necessary adjustments will be made to laws and regulations if required.