RAJSHAHI, Jan 30: As Bangladesh gears up for the 13th parliamentary election, voters in Charghat-Bagha are showing a mix of caution and enthusiasm.
After nearly 17 years, the country is heading towards a competitive election. With the ousted Awami League (AL) absent from the contest, the main rivalry has emerged between the BNP and the 10-Party Alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami.
In Rajshahi-6 (Charghat-Bagha), Jamaat, which had previously allied with the BNP, is now running its own candidate, creating a direct contest between the two major parties. The first day of campaigning already saw both parties exchanging sharp words against each other.
BNP's Rajshahi District Convener and Senior Central Committee Member Abu Saeed Chand is leading the charge for victory in what has historically been a BNP stronghold. He is campaigning with a large group of party workers and local leaders.
On the other hand, Jamaat-e-Islami has fielded its own candidate, Rajshahi District Assistant Secretary Maulana Nazmul Haque. The party has mobilised its entire local cadre and is actively campaigning to attract voters, particularly women, who are believed to favour Jamaat in higher numbers.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a Jamaat worker said that since the August 5, 2024 mass uprising, the party has been preparing for the elections. They have been engaging with households daily, focusing on women voters and encouraging them to support candidates who promise peace and social stability. According to the worker, the response has been encouraging, and the party is confident of winning.
From the first day of campaigning, BNP and Jamaat have started exchanging pointed attacks. BNP leaders have accused Jamaat of its anti-liberation role in 1971 and using religion to mislead voters. In response, Jamaat held a protest rally in Bagha Sadar on Thursday evening, highlighting their discontent.
BNP candidate Abu Saeed Chand said, "Rajshahi has always been a BNP stronghold. From 1971 to 2004, the party dominated every seat in the district. I have never faced defeat in politics or in life, and I will not lose this time either. I am confident voters will support me with their valuable votes."
He also alleged that Jamaat women workers were misleading female voters, collecting NID cards and mobile numbers, and in some areas, they faced obstruction and even attacks.
Jamaat candidate Maulana Nazmul Haque said, "I am contesting based on faith in the Quran and the Creator. The people here know the track record of each party. My promise is to ensure a government free from corruption if we are elected, protect lives and property, and focus on national development. Every woman has the right to vote, and it is wrong to suggest that they cannot participate. Our women voters are exercising their rights peacefully."
With both parties mobilising actively and campaigning across villages and towns, Charghat-Bagha has become a focal point of political tension and competition. Analysts say the direct clash between BNP and Jamaat has significantly changed the political dynamics, making the constituency a key battleground in Rajshahi.
The election in Charghat-Bagha reflects the broader shift in the country, with voters now presented with multiple options and parties competing independently. How the electorate responds to the bitter rivalry and campaign strategies will be crucial in deciding the winner.
