Bringing an end to a long wait, voters were seen exercising their franchise in a festive mood on Thursday.
Md Mirza Shah Alam, 80, told TIMES of Bangladesh that he considered casting his ballot “the most peaceful election” he had ever witnessed, free from pressure.
Meanwhile, 23-year-old Md Siam Hossain expressed joy, noting that in 2024 his ballot had been cast by someone else.
From elderly citizens to first-time voters, the 13th parliamentary election is progressing peacefully across the country.
After nearly two decades, Mahmuda Begum, 45, finally cast her vote again in Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary election. She told TIMES, “I have been able to vote after 17 years. I voted for the ‘sheaf of paddy’ symbol to ensure Tarique Rahman’s victory.”
Her story reflects the broader theme of renewed participation in this landmark election, where many voters are experiencing a sense of empowerment and inclusion after years of being unable to exercise their franchise.
Meanwhile, queues grew longer as the day progressed on this historic election day. Young voters were particularly visible, though female participation remained limited.
The presence of voters like Mahmuda underscores the significance of this election as not just a political contest, but a moment of return and re-engagement for citizens long absent from the ballot box.
At Ideal School and College polling station in Dhaka, an elderly voter became emotional while casting his ballot. Speaking to TIMES, he said, “I voted after many years—perhaps for the last time in my life. This election is being held very peacefully. We have regained our right to vote.”
