Bangladesh local govt polls timeline revealed by advisor

Prime Minister’s Information and Broadcasting Advisor Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman said on Tuesday (May 5) that local government elections may begin by the end of this year and could take 10 months to one year to complete. He also confirmed that there are no plans to abolish the Upazila Parishad.

He made the remarks at the Secretariat while briefing journalists on the progress of government activities.

The advisor said the government is working to ensure that no journalist is unjustly imprisoned during its tenure.

On dengue prevention, he said authorities expect the situation will not worsen this year, but urged people to remain aware and prepared.

Responding to questions about elections in India’s West Bengal, he said Bangladesh-India relations will remain unaffected regardless of which party comes to power.

He also stated that militancy still exists in the country.

On measles vaccination, he said around 16.1 million children have been vaccinated, covering about 89 percent, and full coverage is expected soon. He expressed regret over child deaths and said the government is investigating the matter. He added that there will be no shortage of vaccines.

According to the Department of Health, 17 children died from measles and related symptoms between May 3 and May 4, bringing the total deaths to 311 since March 15.