Prepare for democratic participation as the Election Commission reveals plans for elections in 152 upazila councils across Bangladesh, slated for May 8 in the inaugural phase.
In an announcement by Election Commission Additional Secretary Ashok Kumar Debnath following a commission meeting, key dates were outlined: the nomination paper submission deadline on April 15, candidate selection on April 17, and the withdrawal deadline on April 22. Symbol allocation is scheduled for April 23, followed by the pivotal voting day on May 8.
Amidst updates, the Election Commission issued the Upazila Election Conduct Rules 2024, ushering in changes such as commencing the election campaign on symbol allocation day and mandating online submission of nomination papers.
Subsequent phases are scheduled for May 23, May 29, and June 5, setting the stage for the election of chairman, general vice chairman, and reserved vice chairman positions.
Notably, 22 upazilas in nine districts will employ Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for voting, reflecting advancements in electoral technology.
The ruling Awami League’s decision to abstain from endorsing candidates with their party symbol and the likelihood of the BNP’s absence signal a landscape ripe for independent candidates to contest.
Amended election conduct rules offer leniency, with independent candidates exempt from providing supporter lists and granted flexibility in campaign materials and duration. However, increased deposit requirements—Tk1,00,000 for chairman and Tk75,000 for vice chairman positions—mark a departure from previous norms.
