Local govt polls to be tougher without party symbols: Anee

Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee
today (24 April) said upcoming local government elections will be more challenging
than national polls due to the absence of party symbols.
"Union
parishad elections will be held across the country. We must remain vigilant so
that genuine representatives are elected," he said while speaking as chief
guest at the annual sports and prize-giving ceremony of Hazi Fathe Mohammadia
Dakhil Madrasah in Lakshmipur Sadar upazila.
Anee, also BNP joint secretary
general, said the previous national
election was also challenging and the upcoming union parishad polls would be
''another tough challenge'' as there will be no party symbols.
Earlier, the minister visited erosion-affected areas along
the Dighali Wapda canal and instructed officials on necessary measures.
He
also said the absence of elected local government representatives in many areas
has created administrative difficulties. "For the past 17-18 years, this
process has contributed to various problems at the grassroots level," he
said.
"It
has been two months since we were elected, yet in many places there are no chairmen
or members. Some are absconding, while others are unable to function
effectively," he said.
On
candidate selection, the minister said those seeking to contest as chairman
should be people-oriented, connected to the community and committed to serving
public needs.
He warned against multiple contenders from the same party splitting votes and
weakening electoral prospects.
"Union parishad chairmen and members are very important. There is no scope
to take this lightly, as our collective wellbeing is tied to their
performance," he added.
















