Rangpur: The forthcoming Jatiya Sangsad elections on February 12 in Rangpur district have sparked a dynamic electoral battle, with candidates in all six constituencies preparing for likely two- or three-way contests. This has been driven by the electorate's demand for development in the historically overlooked region.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the election campaigns have intensified, with conflicting political statements from party candidates heating the political landscape. The Rangpur district, notable for its cultural heritage along the Teesta River, sees candidates from 14 political parties, including BNP, Jatiya Party, Jamaat-e-Islami, NCP, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, and Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal (Marxist), contesting fiercely.
A total of 44 candidates, including seven independents, are vying for the district's six parliamentary seats. The combination of personal popularity, party influence, and experienced politicians has created a multi-faceted competition. Observers suggest that BNP, Jatiya Party, and Jamaat-e-Islami hold advantages in different seats, though two- or three-way battles are anticipated in all constituencies.
Candidates and supporters are actively campaigning across cities and villages, promising development and reform. The campaign atmosphere is vibrant, with loudspeakers and public discussions filling the streets. Promises of a "new Bangladesh" and reform efforts are being highlighted, reflecting the spirit of past national movements.
In Rangpur-1, the cancellation of the Jatiya Party candidate's nomination has shifted focus to a likely two-way contest between BNP's Mukarram Hossain Sujon and Jamaat-e-Islami's Raihan Siraji. Meanwhile, Rangpur-2 may witness a three-way race involving candidates from BNP, Jatiya Party, and Jamaat-e-Islami. In Rangpur-3, historically a Jatiya Party stronghold, a heated contest is expected with eight candidates in the fray, including the unique candidacy of a third-gender individual.
The Rangpur-4 constituency sees BNP's Emdadul Haque Bharsha striving to reclaim a seat long held by the Awami League, amidst competition from NCP and Jatiya Party candidates. Rangpur-5's contest features a three-way fight anticipated among BNP, Jatiya Party, and Jamaat-e-Islami. In Rangpur-6, a stiff battle is expected between BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami candidates.
The total electorate across these constituencies exceeds 2.6 million, with a significant number registered for postal voting. As the election date approaches, candidates continue to draw attention to local development issues and voter priorities, setting the stage for a closely watched electoral showdown.