As campaigning intensifies ahead of Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary elections, Dhaka-9 and Dhaka-11 are emerging as closely watched constituencies, where experienced politicians are being challenged by younger contenders in a tense post-uprising political climate.
In Dhaka-9, the campaigning has increasingly centred on winning the youth vote, even as veteran candidates maintain a strong ground presence.
BNP candidate Habibur Rashid has been the most visible, carrying out day-long door-to-door campaigns, courtyard meetings and targeted outreach, including interactions with Hindu voters.
During these programmes, he has promised inclusive development and pledged not to tolerate wrongdoing, even within his own party.
Local residents say a section of senior citizens has actively joined his campaign, while his current focus is on consolidating support among young voters.
At the same time, independent candidate Tasnim Jara, a former National Citizen Party leader, has drawn attention among younger voters.
Volunteers, particularly women and youth, are campaigning for her Football symbol both online and on the streets, relying on social media and personalised voter contact through phone calls.
The Jamaat-led 11-party alliance has nominated NCP candidate Mohammad Jabed Mia in the constituency. His campaign has remained relatively low-key so far, though supporters claim activists linked to the July Uprising is quietly working in his favour.
In Dhaka-11, campaigning has gathered pace with rallies, courtyard meetings and door-to-door outreach. The race has taken on a clear generational tone between Nahid Islam of the NCP and BNP’s MA Quayum.
Nahid Islam, a young leader and a prominent face of the July Uprising, is contesting under the 11-party alliance’s “Shapla Koli” symbol, focusing on reforms, justice, and accountability.
Through street-level campaigns and courtyard meetings, he is seeking to energise first-time and young voters.
However, several voters expressed reservations about Nahid’s local familiarity, noting that MA Quayum, a BNP National Executive Committee member, has a long-standing political presence in the constituency
Quayum’s campaign focuses on direct voter engagement and promises of change rooted in local experience, giving the contest a clear old-versus-new dimension.
Other candidates in both constituencies have limited visible activity.
Across both constituencies, social media platforms are playing a growing role in amplifying campaign messages, particularly among Gen Z voters, as election day draws closer.
