As the nation gears up for the 13th National Parliamentary Election today, a key factor shaping contests in various constituencies is local popularity, alongside party symbols.
Across regions like Chattogram, Sylhet, Mymensingh, and Faridpur, voters consistently express a preference for candidates who are ingrained in the community, accessible, and attentive to local issues.
In Sylhet’s Sunamganj-2 constituency, the focus has historically been on personalities rather than party affiliations. The late Suranjit Sengupta epitomized this ethos, with the seat often referred to as “Babu Suranjit’s seat.”
Even after Suranjit’s tenure, his influence looms large, with rival candidates such as BNP’s Nasir Uddin Chowdhury and Jamaat’s Barrister Shishir Manir invoking his name during their campaigns.
“Despite Suranjit Sengupta’s repeated victories, the seat was known not as an Awami League stronghold but as his personal domain,” remarked Partha Ray from Jagdal union.
Prashanta Sagar Das noted, “Politics in this haor region revolves around individuals rather than party affiliations. Ultimately, personal reputation will determine the outcome here.”
Both contenders are tailoring their messages to resonate with the significant Hindu community, highlighting how local connections and reputations influence campaign strategies.
In Chattogram, interactions with voters reveal a preference for candidate-focused decisions that prioritize local concerns. In Chattogram-11, Jamaat’s Shafiul Alam, a former ward councillor, is challenging BNP heavyweight Amir Khasru.
“For us, the individual candidate holds more weight than the party symbol,” shared Belal Hossain from Halishahar.
Similar sentiments are echoed in Boalkhali and Banshkhali, as Farzana Akhtar Parul noted.
“The candidate who secures local support will emerge victorious,” affirmed Liaqat, a former union chairman.
Voters like Jasmine Akhtar stressed the importance of candidate image and accessibility. “As locals, we want to vote based on a candidate’s reputation,” she emphasized.
In Faridpur-3, BNP candidate Nayeba Yousuf Ahmed is leveraging the enduring popularity of her late father, Chowdhury Kamal Ibne Yousuf.
“Kamal Ibne Yousuf’s enduring popularity in the area enhances his daughter’s chances of success,” observed Shahadat Hossain from Hafezdangi.
For younger voters, accessibility is crucial. “We can approach her and discuss our issues,” noted Manjarul Islam, a student from Shyamsundarpur.
Female voters also find symbolic value in supporting a woman candidate. “Being a woman, she will garner votes,” stated Rizia Begum from Parchar village.
The long electoral history of Nayeba’s father, elected five times from 1979 to 2018, continues to shape perceptions, underscoring the impact of family legacy on political success.
In Mymensingh, eight “rebel” BNP candidates are vying for seats, leveraging personal images and family backgrounds.
Salman Omar, a former BNP district body member, stands out among them.
Ahmed Saifullah, a voter from Nasullah village, praised Salman Omar for his charitable endeavors, including organizing eye camps and providing relief during the pandemic.
“He is respected for his clean image and philanthropic deeds. I intend to vote for him,” expressed Saifullah.
Independent candidate Principal Akhtar Sultana, widow of late BNP lawmaker Shamsuddin Ahmed Hasina Khan Chowdhury, is tapping into the local affection for her late husband.
Abdur Razzaq from Koeyrchala village affirmed his support for her, citing Shamsuddin Ahmed’s past development initiatives as a basis for future hope under Sultana’s leadership.
“The clean image of the female candidate has resonated with the general public, and I also endorse her integrity,” added Abul Hossain from Rajgati village.
