NATORE, a historic district in the Rajshahi Division of northern Bangladesh, is witnessing a surge of political activity as candidates from various parties gear up for the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad election. Although the election date remains unannounced, aspirants across the district's four constituencies are already canvassing for votes and building momentum.
Natore, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and significant role in Bangladesh's past, is poised to be a key battleground in the national political landscape.
Natore, once part of Rajshahi District, has a storied past. From 1769 to 1825, it served as the district headquarters of Rajshahi before being designated as Bangladesh's first Subdivision. In 1984, Natore was officially established as a district.
The region, characterised by its flat terrain and the expansive Chalan Beel-the largest beel in Bangladesh-has long been a significant hub in the region.
Natore's historical importance dates back to the British colonial era, when it served as the headquarters of the Rajshahi District from 1769 to 1825. With the declaration of Natore as a subdivision in 1825 and the later establishment of Natore Mahakuma in 1845, it holds the distinction of being the first subdivision of what is now Bangladesh. The Natore Municipality, one of the oldest in the country, was established in 1869.
The district also bears the scars and stories of Bangladesh's Liberation War. On March 29, 1971, Natore witnessed a fierce battle between the Mukti Bahini and the Pakistani army. Another dark chapter unfolded on May 5, when 42 employees of the North Bengal Sugar Mills in Lalpur were brutally killed by Pakistani forces. Today, the pond where their bodies were disposed of is commemorated as Shaheed Sagar, with a memorial standing beside it in their honour.
With four constituencies-Natore-1, Natore-2, Natore-3, and Natore-4-the district is a microcosm of Bangladesh's broader political dynamics. Candidates from Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami are actively campaigning in the district, taking the advantage of Awami League that dominated in the past electins.
In addition to its political and historical richness, Natore also houses significant cultural landmarks, including the Rani Bhabani Palace and the Uttara Gonobhaban-now the Prime Minister's official residence in North Bengal.
According to the 2022 Bangladesh Census, Natore is home to nearly 1.86 million people across more than half a million households. A significant portion of its population-over 16 per cent-is below the age of 10, pointing to a youthful demographic that could become influential in shaping future political directions.
Despite the absence of a formal election schedule, the prelude to the battle for ballots is already underway in all four parliamentary constituencies of Natore. Both established and new candidates are leaving no stone unturned in seeking public attention and party nominations.
NATORE-1: The constituency, comprising Bagatipara and Lalpur upazilas, was formed in 1984 following the division of the larger Rajshahi District.
Political activities are gradually gaining momentum here.
From the BNP, Farjana Sharmin Putul, daughter of former minister M. Fazlur Rahman Patol, is actively canvassing in Lalpur. She is considered a strong contender and has deep-rooted political lineage and local familiarity working in her favour. Her brother Dr. Yeasir Arafat, son of the late Fazlur Rahman Patol and convener of BNP Lalpur Upazila, is also seeking nomination.
Taiful Islam Tipu, former president of Rajshahi University Chhatra Dal, is also interested to seek BNP nomination.
Jamaat's declared candidate Abul Kalam Azad, Upazila Ameer and former vice-chairman of Lalpur Upazila Parishad, has emerged as a key player.
Although the field is relatively sparse in terms of active contenders, both BNP and Jamaat are vying to galvanise support early. Observers suggest that Putul currently has the upper hand, thanks to early momentum and organizational groundwork.
Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party) candidate is A.S.M. Mokarrebur Rahman Nasim, Member Secretary of the District Unit.
NATORE-2: The constituency consists of Natore Sadar Upazila and Naldanga Upazila.
The political landscape is more competitive and layered. The BNP's prominent figure, Advocate Ruhul Quddus Talukder Dulu, a former state minister, has already begun groundwork to reclaim the seat he once held. His stature and experience make him a frontrunner for the nomination.
However, he faces internal competition from M. Abul Kashem, a member of the BNP's convening committee, who is also seen as a possible nominee.
The presence of multiple aspirants indicates a tight internal battle within BNP's camp.
On the Jamaat side, Professor Younus Ali, Nayeb-e-Ameer of Jamaat's District Unit, has been put forward as their declared candidate.
Reports from local political circles suggest that the Jamaat candidate currently enjoys a stronger grassroots presence, thanks in part to organizational consistency and outreach in recent months.
NATORE-3: The constituency encompasses Singra Upazila.
This election area is witnessing vibrant political activities, particularly from BNP aspirants, with five individuals reportedly seeking the party's nomination. Among them, Kazi Golam Morshed, a former Member of Parliament (MP), is regarded as a strong contender due to his past experience and established network.
Alongside Morshed, the other BNP hopefuls include Dowdar Mahmud, Joint Convener of the District BNP; Principal Anwarul Islam Anu, former convener of Singra Upazila BNP.; and Barrister Md Yousuf Ali, former Joint Convener of Singra Upazila BNP.
All aspirants are actively campaigning, attending social and political events, and working to showcase their popularity with hopes of securing the party's endorsement, making the race both open and fiercely competitive.
Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami has finalised its nomination, selecting Professor Syedur Rahman, Member of the district's Working Parishad of Jamaat, as the party candidate. Rahman has been proactive in mobilising the party's base in Singra, and observers note that he currently holds an edge over his rivals, particularly in light of the visible absence of Awami League and other party campaigns in the area.
NATORE-4: The constituency incorporates Baraigram and Gurudaspur upazilas.
The BNP and Jamaat candidates have already taken to the field in full force, making this constituency one of the most dynamic battle zones in the district.
Abdul Aziz, Joint Convener of the BNP District Unit, has emerged as the party's key face and is actively engaging with constituents through local events and door-to-door visits.
Other notable BNP hopefuls include Barrister Abu Hena Mostafa Kamal (Ranju), son of former BNP MP Professor Mozammel Haque; Shamsul Islam Rani, former joint convener of Baraigram Upazila BNP; and John Gomez, Assistant Secretary for Religious Affairs in the BNP Central Committee.
Jamaat's declared candidate Professor Maulana Abdul Hakim, Joint Secretary of the District Unit, has positioned himself as the prime contender.
Both Aziz and Hakim are seasoned political figures and are expected to face off in a tight race.
According to local political sources, the primary contest is likely to be between these two, as other parties are yet to make any significant move in the area.
The AB Party has nominated Principal Dr. Abdul Gaffar Mallik, former Coordinator of the Natore District Committee, as its candidate.
NCP's candidate might be one of its central leader Dr. Zahidul Islam.
Natore's four constituencies not only reflect the political temperature of northern Bangladesh but also act as indicators of broader national trends. Voter sentiment, candidate visibility, and grassroots campaigning will be key determinants of success in this historically rich and electorally significant district.
