Chattogram: Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk-e-Azam Bir Protik today expressed deep satisfaction over the unprecedented festivity and enthusiasm during the opening hours of the 13th parliamentary elections and referendum. He cast his vote at Bangladesh Women’s Association School and College polling centre under the Chattogram-9 (Kotowali-Bakalia) constituency in the port city at around 7:35 am.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Faruk-e-Azam remarked on the vibrant atmosphere, comparing the voting festival to Eid, reflecting the participation of people of all ages. He emphasized that the supreme sacrifices made by the valiant sons during the July Uprising would be honored through such a participatory and peaceful election.
The veteran freedom fighter highlighted the international attention on the election, noting that leading democratic nations and organizations, including the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the United Nations, are closely observing the much-discussed 13th parliamentary polls and referendum. The election marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to return to the democratic path following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led 16-year rule amid the student-mass July Uprising.
Faruk-e-Azam expressed hope that if the peaceful and enthusiastic atmosphere continues until the end of voting, including the announcement of results and a smooth transition of power to an elected government, it will significantly enhance Bangladesh’s image on the global stage. He found the orderly and vibrant environment at various polling centres in the city and adjacent areas to be highly encouraging for democracy-loving people.
After casting his vote, Faruk-e-Azam visited several constituencies in the district, including Chattogram-5 (Hathazari-Bayezid), Chattogram-4 (Fatikchari), Chattogram-6 (Raozan), and Chattogram-7 (Rangunia), to observe the voting situation firsthand. He acknowledged the interim government led by Prof. Muhammad Yunus for its sincere efforts to hold the long-awaited national election in a free, fair, peaceful, and festive atmosphere.
Faruk-e-Azam concluded by stating that the government’s sole objective is being realized with the cooperation of all, including the Election Commission, political parties, administration, law enforcement agencies, and the people as a whole.