In the upcoming Upazila Parishad elections, the Awami League is reportedly considering not using the boat symbol. Additionally, the central leaders of the Awami League are actively engaged in resolving party disputes in their respective areas. Watching these activities, one might be reminded of the old Bengali proverb, ‘Think before you leap.’
It is worth noting that although our Constitution mentions local government autonomy, no government has allowed local government bodies to function independently. Historically, during the Awami League period, BNP-supporting mayors were elected in major city corporations, and vice versa during the BNP period. The issue arose mainly after the law was amended in 2015, making it possible to use party symbols in local government elections.
Unfortunately, some influential leaders of the ruling party have allegedly misused this law, turning the election process into a farce in their areas. As a result of his intervention candidates have won unopposed in many local government bodies.
Furthermore, following the introduction of party symbols, opposition parties have often boycotted elections to various local government bodies. As a result, party politics has overshadowed the aspirations of the local people in these elections.