Adviser Zahed: AL leaders may contest local elections without party campaigning

Prime Minister’s Adviser on Information and Broadcasting Dr Zahed Ur Rahman on Tuesday said individuals affiliated with the Awami League would be eligible to contest the upcoming local government elections, provided they meet the required qualifications and do not campaign under the party’s banner.

He made the remarks in response to a question about whether the government would permit the Awami League—whose organisational activities are currently suspended—to participate in the local government polls.

Dr Zahed was addressing a press conference at the Press Information Department (PID) conference room at the Secretariat, where he briefed reporters on the progress of various government initiatives.

He said there would be no restriction on individuals contesting the elections, as local government polls are conducted on a non-party basis.

“There is no problem at all. If someone wishes to take part in the election and fulfils the necessary criteria, he or she can contest,” he said.

When asked whether candidates holding positions within the Awami League would be allowed to run, the adviser noted that such positions could not be used in any official or political capacity because the party’s organisational activities remain banned.

“As the organisational activities of the Awami League are prohibited, those positions cannot be used. However, anyone who meets the eligibility requirements and wants to contest the election as an individual may do so,” he added.

Dr Zahed said the government sees no reason to bar any qualified individual from participating in the local government elections.