The Election Commission (EC) has instructed its officials to complete all preparations within the next two months for upcoming local government elections, with plans to announce the election schedule in August and begin voting in October.
The directive was issued at an post-Eid meeting held on Monday, chaired by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin, with all four election commissioners, EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed and senior officials in attendance.
According to meeting sources, the EC has set a target of announcing the election schedule in August, while voting is expected to begin in October. Preparatory activities, including updating polling centres, arranging election materials, and completing urgent amendments to electoral laws and rules, were discussed in detail.
Officials were directed to finalise preparations within two months, including updating polling stations, ensuring the availability of election materials, and completing packaging and logistical arrangements.
Sources said Union Parishad elections may be held in a maximum of four phases, although most areas are expected to go to polls within the first three phases.
Unlike previous elections, district election officers may be given authority to determine the number of phases based on local security conditions and the capacity of law enforcement agencies, including police and Ansar.
The meeting also emphasised the urgent need to verify and update polling centres. Officials noted that many private schools used as polling stations have changed locations or require renovation, while some centres need repairs.
They were instructed to complete verification and prepare updated lists at the ward level within the shortest possible time.
Electoral materials, including stamps and packaging supplies, were also reviewed. The EC directed officials to address any shortages immediately.
The commission also discussed fast-tracking amendments to election laws and regulations. It was decided that only essential and mandatory changes would be made, while stakeholder consultations will be held with political parties and civil society before final approval.
Speaking at the meeting, CEC Nasir Uddin said the standards set for national elections must not be compromised in local government polls, but rather further improved, stressing that the credibility and electoral environment must remain intact.
Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah cautioned officials that although time may appear sufficient, the actual preparation window is very limited. He said that if elections are to be held in October, the schedule must be announced by August.
He further said that legal and procedural reforms must be completed swiftly, prioritising only the most urgent amendments to avoid unnecessary complications.
EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said most election materials are already in stock, and any additional procurement would be completed within the stipulated timeframe. He added that joint discussions between the commission and officials could help finalise legal amendments more efficiently.
The meeting also discussed complications related to National ID (NID) services. Sources said EC official Rahmanel Mashud warned that while the commission is gaining public trust in electoral matters, delays and complications in NID corrections are damaging its reputation, urging that public suffering must be minimised.
