United News of Bangladesh

Local Government Minister and BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday said local government elections will be held at the ‘right time’, even though administrators have been appointed to six city corporations. “There are government rules and procedures for local government elections. Some bodies have fixed terms, and some terms have already expired. We will consider everything and ensure the elections are held at the proper time,” he said. Talking to reporters at BNP’s Nayapaltan central office, Fakhrul also said the government will certainly give priority to the local body polls. Asked whether the appointment of administrators would delay the elections, he said, ‘No’. Fakhrul arrived at the BNP central office at Nayapaltan around 10:30am, where he exchanged greetings with party leaders, activists, supporters, and office staff before speaking to reporters. This was his first visit to the party office after taking charge as Local Government, Rural Development and Co‑operatives Minister. On the qualifications for party nominees to reserved women’s seats in Parliament, Fakhrul said the decision will be made by Parliament. “For nomination, candidates must follow the party’s ideals and principles, have close ties with the people, and show dedication and sacrifice for the party. Those who have been actively involved for a long time will be given priority,” he said. Asked whether two members from the same family would be considered for women’s seat nominations, he said no decision had been taken yet. In response to reports that Awami League offices are reopening in some areas, Fakhrul said, “We do not want this. Since their activities are legally banned, the matter will be addressed accordingly everywhere.” Speaking in the briefing room at Nayapaltan, Fakhrul paid tributes to BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia. “Our central office is very dear to us. From here, all our movements for democratic change and struggle were carried out. Under the leadership of Begum Khaleda Zia, we held many rallies in front of this office, inspiring people to join the democratic movement,” he said. Fakhrul recalled Khaleda Zia’s role in the 1990 mass uprising, forming government in 1991 and 1996, and leading later movements to restore democracy. He said she was one of the key leaders in the Asia-Pacific region in establishing democracy. The BNP leader prayed for the salvation of the departed soul of Khaleda Zia. Fakhrul said their party is now working to build a new Bangladesh under the leadership of BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. BNP’s Nayapaltan office springs back to life with Fakhrul’s Visit