All local polls likely within a year: Mirza Fakhrul

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday said the government aims to complete all local-level elections within the next year.

He made the remarks after a discussion session between district administrators and the Rural Development and Cooperatives Division during the four-day Deputy Commissioners’ Conference 2026 at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital.

“We have said it before and we are reiterating it; we will make every effort to hold all local government elections within one year,” he said.

Mirza Fakhrul, who also serves as Secretary General of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), said the conference included discussions on coordination between the local government ministry and district administrations. 

He noted that several proposals from district administrators were accepted.

Emphasizing the importance of grassroots governance, he said local government institutions form the backbone of democracy and must be strengthened to reinforce democratic practices.

He also urged district administrators to take on leadership roles in implementing government programmes, particularly those initiated under the Prime Minister’s directives.

Highlighting the need for public engagement, he said all efforts must focus on serving citizens, who are the true stakeholders of the country.

Responding to questions, the minister acknowledged that over the past two years, insufficient attention had been given to maintaining local roads and infrastructure. 

He added that local governments have broader responsibilities, including ensuring access to safe drinking water and improving primary education.

Mirza Fakhrul further noted that the effectiveness of local government communication has declined over the past 16 years and alleged that corruption had become widespread. 

He assured that the ministry would investigate irregularities and take steps to prevent future misconduct.

He concluded by saying that such conferences are vital for strengthening coordination between the central ministry and district-level officials and efforts will be made to enhance this collaboration further.

SH