Local elections should take place before national polls, says Asif Mahmud

Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, the Adviser for Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, has stressed the importance of holding local government elections before the upcoming national parliamentary elections.

He shared these remarks on Tuesday afternoon while speaking to journalists after a meeting with the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) held at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka.

The local government adviser explained the current state of local administration, pointing out that no elected representatives are currently in place. Instead, Deputy Commissioners are taking on additional responsibilities in various areas.

However, according to Asif Mahmud, the DCs are encountering several challenges in managing these tasks and are reluctant to continue carrying out these extra duties. 

He said, "They do not want to take on more responsibility."

He emphasized the need for swift elections to elect local government representatives, indicating that discussions on this matter are ongoing. 

If the elections do not take place, Asif Mahmud warned, administrators will need to be appointed to handle the duties that the elected officials would normally oversee.

Touching on the political climate, Asif Mahmud pointed out that a majority of Awami League leaders and activists are currently in hiding. 

However, he made it clear that, "If someone has not committed any wrongdoing, they will be allowed to participate in the local elections after seeking forgiveness." 

He also highlighted a critical exception, saying, "Those involved in genocide will not be permitted to contest the elections."

This statement comes at a critical juncture, as Bangladesh prepares for both local and national elections. 

The adviser‍‍`s remarks are likely to spark significant discussions in political circles, especially given the challenges facing local governance in the absence of elected representatives. 

As the nation awaits a formal decision on the timing of local elections, the adviser‍‍`s call for a swift resolution reflects the urgency of ensuring proper leadership at the local level.