Dhaka: The local government elections are set to commence at the end of the current year, as announced by Prime Minister's Adviser on Information and Broadcasting, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman, during a press briefing at the Secretariat's Press Information Department (PID) conference room.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Dr. Zahed stated that the election process, once started, is anticipated to take between 10 months to a year to complete. The preparations required for the elections have already been communicated by the relevant ministry.
In response to queries about the government's plans concerning the Upazila Parishad, particularly with the allocation of office space for Members of Parliament (MPs) at Upazila Parishad offices, Dr. Zahed clarified that no decision has been made to abolish the Upazila Parishad. He emphasized that, under Section 25 of the Upazila Parishad Act, MPs serve as legal advisers to the Upazila Parishad.
Dr. Zahed addressed the public debate over MPs serving as advisers, stating that providing office space for MPs at Upazila Parishad offices is a logical extension of their advisory role and does not weaken the role of the Upazila Parishad. The government, he assured, does not intend to diminish the Upazila Parishad's role with these measures.