The Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh has decided to remove the requirement for candidates to submit pledges in the upcoming local government elections. The decision, discussed in a recent EC meeting, is part of a broader revision of election regulations. The commission believes the presence or absence of such pledges does not significantly affect candidacy eligibility. Preparations are underway to begin the local government elections, likely starting with Union Parishad polls in October 2026.

According to EC sources, the draft regulations are expected to be finalized by June 10 and sent to the government for approval within the month. The new proposals include raising deposits for various positions: Union Parishad chairmen from 5,000 to 20,000 taka, members from 1,000 to 10,000 taka, and municipal and city corporation posts with proportional increases. The EC also plans to adjust campaign spending limits for certain posts.

Local Government State Minister Mir Shah Alam stated that a detailed election roadmap will be announced after budget allocations are confirmed. Most local government bodies are currently run by administrators, and the EC has developed election calendar software to streamline scheduling and data management.