The Local Government Division has formally requested the Election Commission (EC) to take necessary preparations to hold elections to the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) and Chattogram City Corporation (CCC).

The move comes shortly after the conclusion of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections, as the Commission begins considering the next major electoral events involving three of the country’s largest metropolitan bodies.

Officials from the EC’s Election Management Wing said on Tuesday (February 17) that letters sent by the Local Government Division are currently being processed for placement before the Commission. Formal steps regarding the polls will be taken following the Commission’s decision.

According to separate letters sent by the Secretary of the Local Government Division, the first meeting of DSCC was held on June 2, 2020. As per the five-year tenure, its term expired on June 1 last year.

The first meeting of DNCC took place on June 3, 2020, and its five-year tenure ended on June 2, 2025.

Meanwhile, the first meeting of CCC was held on February 23, 2021. Under the law, its tenure will expire on February 22 this year.

The Local Government (City Corporation) Act stipulates that elections must be held within 180 days prior to the expiration of a city corporation’s tenure.

Following the July 2024 political upheaval, the government removed elected representatives from 12 city corporations and several other local government bodies after then mayors and councillors resigned. At present, most local government institutions—except union parishads—are being run by administrators.

However, under a court order, Dr Shahadat Hossain is currently performing the duties of mayor of Chattogram City Corporation.

The EC is expected to take a decision on the schedule after reviewing the communications and relevant legal provisions.