Dhaka:The Election Commission (EC) has announced plans to conduct elections in approximately 1,000 union parishads (UPs) in the first phase on January 21, 2027. This is part of a five-phase election program aimed at covering local government bodies whose terms have expired or are due to expire within the election schedule period.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed revealed the election schedule during a press briefing at the Election Commission Bhaban in Agargaon. The second phase of the elections is tentatively set for February 4, with subsequent phases planned for April 29, May 13, and May 27, respectively. These dates have been chosen with consideration for Ramadan, the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinations, and coastal weather conditions.
Approximately 1,000 UPs, with a potential variation of 50, are expected to participate in the first phase. The terms of around 4,300 union parishads have already expired, necessitating the completion of elections for these bodies by May 27, 2027. The EC is focusing on UPs that have either expired terms or are approaching the end of their terms within the election schedule period. Preparations for the first phase are nearly complete, and the lists of UPs for the first and second phases are anticipated to be finalized by Thursday.
Akhtar Ahmed also mentioned that all UP elections within an upazila would occur simultaneously if their terms had expired or they were eligible for elections. Some UP elections are pending due to court cases, but these may be included if court verdicts are finalized before the final list is published.
The EC is advancing its preparations for the elections, including verifying election materials and organizing the printing of ballot papers for various posts. Discussions have been held with the Bangladesh Government Press and Security Printing Press regarding the printing of ballots. The decision to conduct the UP elections in five phases was made during a Commission meeting on October 12, and Election Commissioner Brigadier General (Retd.) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah confirmed that all elections would be completed by May 27, 2027.