NCP Convener Nahid Islam cast his first-ever vote on Thursday morning, urging citizens to participate peacefully in the electoral process and to “reclaim ownership” of the country through the ballot.
Nahid Islam voted at the AKM Rahmatullah University College polling centre at 8:05am and later addressed reporters at the venue.
“I have cast my first vote here at Rahmatullah Degree College. I urge the people to come to the polling stations freely, without fear, and in a festive atmosphere,” he said.
Describing the day as historic, he said voters now have the opportunity to exercise their franchise after a prolonged period without what he described as credible elections.
He urged voters to support ongoing reform efforts by voting “yes” in the referendum and backing the 11-party alliance to help move Bangladesh forward.
Security personnel, including members of the army, were deployed in and around the polling centre. Voting was reported to be proceeding smoothly, with men and women forming orderly queues.
Ahmed Nurul Haque, 34, who came to vote with his wife and two children, said he felt free to vote for the first time in 17 years.
“So far, voting is peaceful,” he said, expressing hope for a positive outcome regardless of which side wins.
