State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Mir Shahe Alam clarified on Sunday that there is no educational qualification requirement for candidates contesting in local government elections. Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat following a meeting with the Swiss Ambassador to Bangladesh, he addressed ongoing social media rumors, confirming that none of the five local government laws demand academic credentials for positions ranging from Union Parishad members to City Corporation mayors. He added that enforcing such requirements could infringe upon fundamental rights, as formal schooling does not solely dictate a person's capability for public service.

Regarding whether MPO-enlisted teachers can participate in local elections, the State Minister stated that the final decision rests with the Election Commission (EC). Citing the local government acts and Section 11.17(b) of the Non-Government Educational Institutions MPO Policy 2025—which restricts MPO-enlisted staff from holding multiple gainful positions or financial roles simultaneously—he noted that the EC will evaluate candidate eligibility. Should the EC require further legal interpretation, the ministry will consult with the Law Ministry to provide a clear resolution.