Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain stated on Sunday that his legal term continues until November 3, 2029. Addressing recent debates regarding his tenure, the Mayor clarified that his five-year mandate began the day he took his oath, following a court ruling that declared the previous mayoral term illegal.
Speaking to journalists after inaugurating a park and walkway beautification project in Halishahar’s H-Block, Dr. Shahadat noted that the government has already issued him a five-year diplomatic passport in recognition of his position.
The Mayor recounted a three-year legal struggle following the 2021 city elections, which he described as marred by intimidation. He alleged that during that election, printed EVM results were replaced with handwritten copies, and hard disks were destroyed on election night.
"I have spent 16 years in movement and struggle, including imprisonment before the 2018 elections," Dr. Shahadat said, reflecting on his four-decade political career. He expressed a desire for a truly "festive and competitive" election to gauge the support of Chittagong’s 2.2 million voters.
Despite his court-ordered mandate, Dr. Shahadat expressed strong support for fresh, fair elections. He emphasized that the Ministry of Local Government (LGRD) holds the authority to organize polls and has already communicated with the Election Commission regarding his status.
"Elections should be held in both Chattogram and Dhaka," the Mayor urged, noting that the absence of elected councilors is currently depriving citizens of essential services. He confirmed that if the party nominates him again, he will resign his post once an official election schedule is announced.
"Ultimately, the people will decide. I only want an environment that is fair and democratic,"
