Dhaka, July 22 -- Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday said local government elections are likely to be held either by the end of this year or in early 2027, assuring that the polls will be conducted in a free, fair and impartial manner without any political interference.

Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion organised by the Bangladesh Union Parishad Chairmen and Members Association at the auditorium of the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh, he said there will be no scope for anyone to influence the elections and that candidates will have to secure victory through the people's support.

Addressing UP chairmen and members, Fakhrul, also BNP secretary gene...