Dhaka: Party symbols will no longer be used in local government elections, as announced by Local Government and Rural Development (LGRD) Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain today. The announcement was made during a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital this afternoon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the council of advisers approved amendments to four relevant laws proposed by the Local Government Division. The meeting, chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, was held at the Chief Adviser's Office (CAO). Asif Mahmud explained that the decision to use party symbols in local government polls was introduced in 2015 during the fascist government, leading to amendments in the laws.
The Electoral System Reform Commission and the Local Government Reform Commission have now recommended removing party symbols from local polls. Consequently, proposals to abolish specific sections of the City Corporation Act 2015, Municipality Act 2015, Upazila Parishad Act 2015, and Union Parishad Act 2015 were placed and approved by the Council of Advisers. This means candidates will participate in local government elections using independent symbols, potentially reducing election-related clashes and focusing on candidates' qualifications.
Regarding the timing of local government elections in relation to national elections, Asif Mahmud stated that this amendment is part of ongoing reforms. The decision on election timing will depend on national consensus and government discussions with political parties.
During the press conference, Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam announced the formation of a new Pay Commission to restructure the salaries of government officials and employees. Former Finance Secretary Zakir Ahmed Khan will lead the commission, tasked with submitting a report within six months. The previous salary structure was set in 2015, and adjustments are needed to align with inflation.
Additionally, an investigation commission led by a former judge has been established to probe the Gopalganj violence. Addressing concerns about rumors related to a recent jet crash at Milestone School and College, Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul emphasized the criminal nature of spreading false information and urged the media to act responsibly in preventing the spread of rumors.