Prime Minister’s Adviser on Information and Broadcasting Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman announced on Tuesday that individuals associated with the Awami League can participate in the upcoming local government elections, provided they meet the standard eligibility criteria and do not campaign on behalf of the party.

The adviser made these remarks during a press conference held at the Press Information Department (PID) conference room at the Secretariat, which was organized to share updates on the progress of various government activities.

He was specifically asked whether the government would allow the Awami League—which is currently facing a ban on its organizational activities—to take part in the upcoming local government polls.

Dr. Zahed clarified that there would be no obstacle to individuals contesting the polls since the upcoming elections will be conducted on a non-party basis.

“There is no problem at all. If a person wants to participate in the election and fulfils the required criteria, he or she can contest,” he stated.

When pressed with questions regarding candidates who may still hold official leadership positions within the Awami League, the adviser explained that because the party's organizational activities remain banned, such designations cannot be utilized in any official or political capacity during the election process.

“Since organisational activities of the Awami League are prohibited, those positions cannot be used. However, as individuals, anyone who fulfils the necessary criteria and wishes to contest the election may do so,” Dr. Zahed asserted.

He concluded by reiterating that the government has no reason or intention to prevent any eligible citizen from participating in local government elections.