With less than a week remaining until the upcoming elections, campaigning efforts have escalated in Chattogram-9 (Kotwali) as candidates from the BNP and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami have ramped up their interactions with the public in the port city.
BNP contender Mohammad Abu Sufian engaged in campaign activities within the constituency earlier this week, commencing from the Cheragi Pahar intersection in Ward-32 (Anderkilla). Progressing through Rajapukur Lane, Hazari Gali, and Teribazar, he connected with traders and pedestrians, emphasizing the desire for change among voters in Chattogram-9.
Stating that the populace aims to reclaim their voting rights after a prolonged period, Abu Sufian highlighted key areas of focus if elected, including addressing waterlogging issues, ensuring trader security, and enhancing civic amenities.
During a street rally, he expressed his dedication to representing the common people in politics and encouraged voters to freely exercise their voting rights on February 12, promising to strive for a more sustainable and peaceful Chattogram.
Simultaneously, Jamaat candidate Dr. AKM Fazlul Hoque initiated his campaign in the Ishaker Pool vicinity, engaging with residents from various professions such as rickshaw pullers, shopkeepers, and small traders.
Encouraging voters to back the Scales symbol and vote affirmatively in the referendum, Dr. Fazlul responded to a local rickshaw-puller’s inquiry about the benefits of electing him by outlining a series of development commitments, including tackling persistent waterlogging and poor road conditions through collaboration with the Chattogram City Corporation and the Chattogram Development Authority.
He further pledged to establish primary healthcare facilities in each ward and proposed the establishment of a tourism zone along the Bakolia embankment. Continuing his door-to-door campaigning at Kalamia Bazar, he reiterated his vision for a political transformation post the February 12 election.
Describing their aspirations to construct a Bangladesh founded on justice, where individuals of all religions – Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and Muslims – can coexist with respect, Dr. Fazlul emphasized the significance of inclusivity and equality.
Chattogram-9, recognized as a pivotal constituency due to its housing of crucial government establishments like the divisional commissioner’s office and the court building, is deemed a “bellwether” seat. Historically, the party winning this constituency has proceeded to lead the government, as evidenced in the elections of 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2008.
With 412,538 eligible voters, religious minorities constitute a substantial portion of the electorate in regions such as Jamal Khan, Patharghata, and Anderkilla. Acknowledging this demographic composition, both candidates have recently engaged with minority communities, vowing to ensure security and equal rights for citizens of all faiths.
