Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that a decision will be made in the first session of parliament on whether local government elections will be held under party symbols or not.
Speaking to reporters at his office after newly appointed administrators of six city corporations assumed their duties, Fakhrul emphasised that political administrators are expected to provide more effective public service than government officials.
“We believe that appointing political figures as city administrators will enhance citizen engagement and improve service delivery,” he said.
Asked about his personal view on holding elections under party symbols, the minister stated that he would follow the party’s collective decision. He further confirmed that the matter will be finalised during the Parliament session scheduled to begin on March 12.
Fakhrul also noted that elections will commence in local government bodies whose terms have expired, with some expected to be held before the Dhaka city corporations. On the timeline for completing the elections, he said it cannot be determined now, as the process is ongoing and will proceed in phases, similar to union and upazila elections.
Deputy Minister for Local Government Mir Shah Alam said that political administrators, being closely connected with the public, are better positioned than bureaucrats to ensure efficient city management.
The six newly appointed administrators have pledged to prioritise public welfare, focusing on mosquito control, traffic management, road maintenance, and reducing public inconvenience. They also plan to implement a 60-day action programme to deliver rapid results.
The government appointed political administrators for six city corporations, including Dhaka North and Dhaka South, replacing previous bureaucratic officials. The appointments were formalised through a notification issued by the Local Government Division on February 22.
RMM/MHK