Dhaka, Feb 23 (V7N)- The Bangladesh Election Commission is preparing to hold local elections as soon as the 13th National Parliament of Bangladesh elections conclude. Political parties have already begun preparations, with key announcements emerging from the capital.

BNP leader Ishraq Hossain has announced his candidacy for the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) mayoral elections via a post on his verified Facebook page on Monday (February 23) afternoon.

Ishraq Hossain, who won the 13th National Parliament elections from Dhaka-6 with the paddy sheaf symbol, currently serves as State Minister for Liberation War Affairs in the new government. He intends to leave his parliamentary and ministerial posts to contest the mayoral position at Nagar Bhaban.

This is not his first DSCC bid. Ishraq previously contested the 2020 mayoral election and initially lost, but challenged the results in court. In 2025, a court verdict declared him the mayor, which was later gazetted by the EC. However, he did not assume office due to disputes with then advisor on local government affairs, Asif Mahmud, including surrounding Nagar Bhaban and taking residence near Jamuna, sparking public discussion and criticism.

Meanwhile, Asif Mahmud, former advisor and NCP spokesperson, is also set to contest for the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) mayoral post, highlighting intra-party competition. Questions remain about whether BNP will officially support Ishraq, as the party traditionally backs candidates who did not contest parliamentary elections.

Alliance-related tensions are also emerging. Jamaat sources indicate reluctance to cede the mayoral post to allies in the 11-party coalition, with Haji Md. Enayet Ullah, the party’s previous Dhaka-7 candidate, being considered as their potential Dhaka South nominee.

It is worth noting that the interim government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus amended local government laws through ordinances, including changes to the Representation of the People Order. If these ordinances are approved by the 13th Parliament, future local elections will be non-partisan. However, political parties are expected to field supported candidates even if no party symbols appear on the ballot.

END/SMA/AJ