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Bangladesh's Election Commission (EC) is set to finalize the code of conduct for upcoming local government elections at a meeting on July 21. The commission announced it will not engage in dialogues with political parties prior to the polls, directing them to discuss matters within parliament. Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud emphasized that parliament is the appropriate venue for such discussions. The proposed code introduces more stringent measures, such as the immediate disqualification of candidates for significant breaches, reduced campaign durations, and regulations for social media usage. It also aims to restrict the use of sound systems. The EC has reviewed 11 opinions on the draft code, incorporating only minor suggestions, with no major alterations anticipated. The draft codes for union parishads, upazila parishads, municipalities, zila parishads, and city corporations were published on June 10, with feedback sought from 56 registered political parties. Violators of the code could face disqualification through a written order. The draft also proposes barring teachers from MPO-listed institutions, dual citizens, and loan defaulters from contesting. The security deposit for mayoral candidates in municipalities and city corporations will increase, while deposits for union parishad chairman candidates will also see a rise, though it will remain unchanged for women candidates. The code of conduct was last amended in 2016. Local government elections are expected to commence with union parishad polls in early October, with schedules likely announced in late August.

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We will not hold any dialogue now. The ruling party, the opposition -- all parties are currently engaged in parliament. If they wish, they can discuss matters there.