The Dhaka-5 constituency, located in the eastern part of the capital city and encompassing Jatrabari and Demra police jurisdictions, is currently witnessing an active election campaign. Various areas such as Konapara, Sarulia, Demra College, Jatrabari Intersection, the Matuail Institute of Child and Mother Health, and the Dhaka–Chattogram Highway are bustling with frequent processions led by candidates and their supporters.
Despite the visible presence of banners, billboards, and rallies throughout the constituency, residents have noted a lack of the usual festive atmosphere associated with past elections. Nevertheless, there is a sense of anticipation among voters. They are hopeful that persistent issues such as gas and water shortages, illegal land occupation, extortion, terrorism, environmental degradation, traffic congestion, drug abuse, and the proliferation of youth gangs will be effectively addressed post-election.
Abu Sayeed, a resident of Amulia in Demra, expressed concerns about the deteriorating drainage system and widespread waste in the area. He highlighted security issues, including increasing muggings and uncontrolled drug trafficking. Sayeed emphasized the importance of candidates fulfilling their promises made during door-to-door campaigns.
A Jatrabari resident, speaking anonymously, pointed out a shift in the election ambiance, noting a decrease in the usual street corner crowds and noise levels. Despite ongoing campaigning, voters appear more subdued this time around, with plans to cast their ballots in their own manner on February 12.
The Dhaka-5 constituency comprises Wards 48, 49, 50, and 60 to 70 of the Dhaka South City Corporation, with a total of 419,996 registered voters, a decrease from 490,764 in the previous election. Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Mohammad Kamal Hossain outlined his development plans, emphasizing anti-corruption measures and youth employment opportunities. He proposed providing interest-free loans to budding entrepreneurs, reopening closed jute mills to generate employment, and ensuring various amenities like playgrounds, parks, quality educational institutions, and modern healthcare facilities.
He pledged to combat corruption, land grabbing, and criminal syndicates, as well as address issues such as mosquito control and gas shortages. Kamal also promised a comprehensive “cleansing drive” to rid the area of illegal occupation and terrorism. Alleging violations of the electoral code of conduct by the BNP candidate, Kamal expressed confidence that voters would support Jamaat’s platform.
In response, BNP candidate Md Nabiullah Nabi called for a politics free from hostility and expressed optimism about winning by a significant margin. Nabi, a seasoned politician with 45 years of experience, highlighted his track record of serving the community and emphasized the importance of voting for the “Sheaf of Paddy” for a better Bangladesh. He identified waterlogging as a major issue in the constituency, attributing it to illegal activities by housing developers.
Nabi pledged to reclaim occupied water bodies, combat drug trafficking and terrorism, and create a fair electoral environment. He noted the electorate’s eagerness to vote after years of mismanagement and expressed confidence in the upcoming election process.
Apart from the key candidates, other contenders in the race include Syed Mohammad Ibrahim of Gono Odhikar Parishad, Md Ibrahim of Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Tofazzal Hossain Mostafa of the Communist Party of Bangladesh, Md Taifur Rahman Rahi of Muktijote, Shahinur Akter Sumi of Socialist Party of Bangladesh (Marxist), Md Humayun Kabir of the LDP, Mir Abdus Sabur of Jatiya Party, Md Golam Azam of Bangladesh Labour Party, and Md Saiful Alam of Bangladesh Congress.
