Jhalokathi: S.M. Neamul Karim, the Jamaat-e-Islami candidate representing the 11-party alliance for the Jhalokathi-2 constituency, has committed to revitalizing the district's historical status as the "Second Kolkata" by enhancing its trade and commerce sectors.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Karim, who is running for office with the symbol of 'Scales' (Dwaripalla), shared his vision in an exclusive interview focused on industrial development, the July Charter, and the electoral environment, ahead of the 13th national election.
Karim, a former General Secretary of the Barishal BM College Students' Union and active participant in the July movement, outlined his election promises. He aims to restore Jhalokathi's heritage by reopening closed salt mills and reviving the brass and bell metal industries with loan assistance. Additionally, Karim plans to establish a university and a medical college in the district. He also intends to improve regional connectivity by developing a modern road network linking Jhalokathi with the Mongla and Payra ports and expanding the local guava industry. Furthermore, Karim aims to transform Nalchity into a modern city, addressing the lack of development of its roads despite its status as one of the country's oldest municipalities.
Karim emphasized the importance of adhering to the electoral code of conduct and instructed his activists to maintain mutual harmony and a peaceful environment with all political parties. He highlighted the significance of the "July Charter," urging voters to vote "Yes" in the referendum to prevent the return of fascism and honor the sacrifices made during the July mass uprising.
Regarding the upcoming national election, Karim stressed the need for the Election Commission to ensure a fair and credible election process, allowing equal opportunities for all political parties. He noted that the Jhalokathi-2 seat, which includes Sadar and Nalchity, has 365,396 voters, with a significant portion being young, first-time voters who are expected to play a crucial role in the election's outcome.