Baku:Elections to approximately 4,300 Union Parishads (UPs) across the country are set to occur in five phases from January 21 to May 27, 2027.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Election Commission (EC) has announced that the first phase of voting will take place on January 21, followed by subsequent phases on February 4, April 29, May 13, and May 27. The initial phase is expected to involve around 800 UPs.
Election Commissioner Brigadier General Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah (Retd.) revealed the schedule after a commission meeting, stating that elections for these local government bodies must be completed by May 27, 2027, as required by law. Detailed schedules will be released by district election officers approximately 42 to 45 days before the polls.
The EC plans to conduct the elections first in UPs located near district headquarters, progressing to those near upazila headquarters. This strategy aims to facilitate the coordinated deployment of law enforcement personnel, with additional support from neighboring districts if necessary.
The commission has committed to taking strict measures against electoral interference, violence, and intimidation. Judicial and executive magistrates will be deployed to enforce electoral laws, with provisions for immediate legal action and potential cancellation of candidacies in cases of serious violations.
Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Mashud emphasized that the commission is determined to ensure free, fair, and acceptable elections, consulting with political parties to maintain a peaceful electoral environment. He warned that no special concessions would be granted to those disrupting the electoral process, regardless of political affiliation, and offenders could face legal action and candidacy cancellation.
The amended electoral rules include penalties for irregularities, voter intimidation, and the use of force. The success of the elections will rely on effective enforcement of laws and prompt action against violations, with provisions for fresh polling at centers where irregularities are confirmed.