Local government polls likely from September: Fakhrul

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday said local government elections across the country may begin in phases from September or October after the monsoon season.

Speaking during the question-and-answer session in Parliament, the minister said the government plans to complete elections to union parishads, municipalities, upazila parishads, district councils and city corporations within the next year, subject to budget availability.

He indicated that union parishad elections are likely to be held first, followed by polls to other local government bodies. Elections to all 13 city corporations, including the newly formed Bogura City Corporation, are also expected to be completed within the same timeframe.

The minister also informed Parliament that funds have been allocated to construct inspection rooms at upazila parishad complexes for MPs and senior officials, while steps are underway to improve waste management, water supply services and the birth and death registration system through digital upgrades.

TZ