Sylhet, June 28 -- e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has said there is no alternative to holding local government elections before the national polls to reduce public suffering and assess the Election Commission's capacity.

"We support holding the next national election within the timeframe announced by the interim government chief after necessary reforms. But before that, local elections are essential to test the EC's capability," he said.

He also noted that the absence of elected representatives in local government bodies is worsening public suffering, while administrative control through bureaucrats is disrupting civic services.

The Jamaat chief was addressing a day-long Rukon (Member) Training Camp organised by Sylhet city Jamaat o...