The upcoming Eid-ul-Adha festivities have transformed into a strategic platform for early electioneering, as the ruling BNP, the opposition Jamaat-e-Islami, and the newly formed NCP intensify their grassroots presence ahead of local government elections.
Potential candidates for Upazila Parishads, municipalities, and Union Parishads are leveraging Eid greetings, social programmes, and meat distribution to consolidate their influence.
Shift to personal image
Political analysts suggest that the decision to hold elections without party symbols has fundamentally altered the electoral landscape, placing a premium on individual reputation and local clout.
Dr Badiul Alam Majumdar, secretary of Citizens for Good Governance (SUJON) and former head of the interim government’s Election Commission Reform Committee, told TIMES of Bangladesh that the absence of symbols would make the contests highly competitive.
“In the absence of symbols, the personal image of a candidate becomes the deciding factor,” Dr Majumdar observed, describing the move toward symbol-less local polls as a “correct decision” that has prompted many to enter the field early.
BNP’s grassroots activation
Although the government party, BNP, has yet to officially nominate candidates, its aspirants are visible across various districts. From poster campaigns to worker meetings, the party is using the festive period to reconnect with the electorate.
Advocate Syed Saberul Haque Sabu, president of Jessore District BNP and a member of the party’s Central Executive Committee, confirmed that many leaders have planned exchange meetings and greetings for the Eid period.
“The grassroots activists are eager to participate in a free election after a long hiatus,” Sabu told TIMES. He added that the party high command is currently discussing the matter and will finalise candidates once formal instructions are issued.
Jamaat’s advanced preparation
In contrast to BNP’s cautious approach, Jamaat-e-Islami has already declared its candidates for Upazilas, municipalities, and Union Parishads nationwide. The party is treating the local polls as a vital opportunity for public engagement.
Golam Kuddus, assistant secretary of Jessore District Jamaat and chairmanship candidate for the Bagherpara Upazila election, stated that candidates have been instructed to use the Eid holidays for “maximum publicity.”
NCP and the silent AL factor
National Citizen Party (NCP), a new political entity, is also making its debut in the local electoral arena. The party has already announced mayoral candidates for five City Corporations and several Upazila chairmanship aspirants.
Arifur Rahman Tuhin, joint chief coordinator of NCP and a candidate for the Rajapur Upazila in Jhalakathi, emphasised that these elections are crucial for strengthening their organisational foundations.
Meanwhile, a unique dynamic is emerging among supporters of the Awami League. Despite the lack of formal party symbols, many potential candidates associated with the party are working “silently.”
Analysts believe these individuals are avoiding overt campaigning to prevent becoming targets of the current administration or rivals from BNP and Jamaat at this early stage.
The grassroots test
As political forces converge on the festive season to build momentum, experts maintain that these local elections will serve as the ultimate litmus test for grassroots strength.
The surge in public outreach underscores a broader effort by established parties and new political movements alike to secure their positions in the changing political order.
