Local polls EC to decide MPO-teachers’ participation
State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam stated that the Election Commission (EC) will decide whether MPO-listed teachers can participate in local government elections.
He made this remark while speaking to reporters at the Secretariat on Sunday.
Shahe Alam stated that there is a question among you regarding MPO-listed teachers. Our local government laws clearly stipulate that any individual holding a remunerative public office-whether under the Republic, a council, or any other local authority-is disqualified.
To clarify this matter, the Ministry of Education has explicitly addressed the issue in Rule 11, Point 17(b) of the ‘Policy on Manpower Structure and MPO for Non-Government Educational Institutions (Schools and Colleges) 2025.’
It is stated therein that no MPO-listed teacher or employee may simultaneously hold multiple positions or jobs, or occupy any position that yields financial gain. Clause 11.17(b) further specifies that a position yielding financial gain refers to any salary, allowance, or honorarium provided by the government, as well as any salary, allowance, or honorarium received in exchange for services rendered to private educational institutions, organizations, universities, or in the legal profession.
He stated that the Election Commission determines election regulations as well as the eligibility and disqualification criteria for candidates. Now, by harmonising the Election Commission’s rules, the Local Government Act, and the Ministry of Education’s 2025 policy, a decision will be made regarding whether MPO-listed teachers can run as candidates.
If the Election Commission subsequently requires a legal opinion, further details, or any clarification on the matter, and refers it to the Ministry of Local Government, we will consult the Ministry of Law and provide the necessary clarification.
The State Minister also noted that there are no mandatory educational qualification requirements for candidates participating in local government elections.
Earlier, Reto Renggli, the Swiss Ambassador to Bangladesh, paid a courtesy call on Abdul Moyeen Khan, the Minister of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, at the Secretariat. The State Minister for Local Government was also present on the occasion.
