Abu Jakir :
As the nation gears up for the upcoming Upazila Parishad elections, a notable twist in the strategy of the ruling Awami League has emerged.
Contrary to the norm, the party has decided not to field any party candidates in the upcoming polls scheduled to commence next month.
However a contrasting picture has started to emerge as AL’s Members of Parliament (MPs) and ministers are openly endorsing their preferred candidates for the local body elections, posing a significant challenge for the party’s high-ranking officials to control their own members.
To address this unconventional approach, Awami League’s top brass has initiated discussions with MPs and ministers from each division.
Recently, the party’s General Secretary, Obaidul Quader, held meetings with leaders, MPs, and ministers from Rangpur and Chattogram divisions at the party’s central office in the capital.
During these sessions, Quader issued directives to party members, MPs, and ministers, emphasising adherence to the party’s decision regarding the local body elections and refraining from interfering in the polls.
“Influence in the polls by MPs would disrupt the entire process to promote their chosen candidates, which cannot be allowed. No interference will be tolerated,” stated Quader firmly.
The absence of Awami League’s official candidates has rendered the Upazila Parishad elections ‘competitive’ this time. However, the party’s MPs, ministers, and local leaders are actively supporting their favored candidates in various regions.
Some have already declared their preferred candidates as party nominees. Consequently, internal strife within the Awami League has escalated following the parliamentary elections held on January 7.
While internal opposition within major political parties is typically minimal at different levels, tensions were heightened around the January 7 elections.
Party leaders’ encouragement of independent candidates within the Awami League resulted in parliamentary seat-based opposition during the polls.
With the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) unlikely to participate in the Upazila Parishad elections on a party basis, the contest primarily revolves around Awami League leaders.
The promotion for the first phase of the Upazila Parishad elections is expected to commence after Eid. Concerns linger that the conflict among power factions may manifest in some areas.
The elections will be conducted in four phases across 481 Upazila Parishads nationwide. The first phase is scheduled for May 8, with details already announced for 152 Upazila Parishads.
