Peaceful voting brings relief in Rajshahi, voters witness ‘Beauty of Politics’

A peaceful and festive atmosphere prevailed across Rajshahi city during the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum. Voting concluded smoothly amid strong voter turnout, active law enforcement presence, and coordinated administrative management. Many voters expressed satisfaction with the overall process, saying the election allowed Bangladesh to witness the “beauty of politics” through orderly participation and calm conduct.

Sukhi Begum, 20, a resident of Bulanpur in the city, told Views Bangladesh, "The government's intelligent strategy, the Election Commission's promptness, the administration's efforts, the role of law enforcement agencies and the people's long-awaited patience and cooperation were all reflected in the February 12 election."

She said, "Since birth, I have only heard that members of parliament are elected through votes. They steer the country. The people enjoy the benefits and suffer the consequences. I hope the elected government will lead the country on the right path. Let them preserve their honour. Let them not flee, abandoning the people, their party workers and the countrymen. I do not want to see any vendetta or retaliation. I want to live a life free from fear and terror."

Mosa Tasmia Raka, a voter from ward 7 of Rajshahi City Corporation, told Views Bangladesh, "The voting in the election was held in a peaceful and festive atmosphere."

"Voting at the city's Model School and College centre took place in an extremely festive environment. Coming to the polling centre felt much like Eid. The voting was conducted very beautifully. I am optimistic that the people of Rajshahi always remain on the path of justice; I cast my vote considering development. I have seen its reflection in the results as well. The practice of killings, disappearances, harassment and holding people hostage will end now. I am 100 per cent confident about this."

She further said, "Many have suffered the consequences of politics that picks and chooses based on country, party and people. Politicians will find the outcome of thinking about personal fortune by introducing arbitrary practices if they look at Junaid Ahmed Palak, Salman F Rahman, Obaidul Quader and Hasina. They can place people on their heads; they also know how to show the way to the grave. If the country is run keeping this in mind, the nation will not lose its path."

She also informed, "As the first voter at the PTI School centre in ward 4 of the city, I exercised my franchise in a peaceful environment." She noted that the centre's atmosphere was orderly and pleasant. According to voters, if voting continues in a fair and congenial environment, the democratic process will be further strengthened.

Md Suman, a resident of Dingadoba area in Rajshahi city, told Views Bangladesh, "The drama that has been enacted in the name of voting for the past 15 years is coming to an end. The world witnessed the beauty of Bangladesh's politics. Politicians are understanding that the people of the country do not wish to see politics of vengeance. This is a very positive aspect for the country, the people and politicians. This time, no talk of vote robbery has been heard across the country. As a result, the world has witnessed Bangladesh's beautiful election."

Afia Akhtar, Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner, District Magistrate and Returning Officer, told Views Bangladesh, "It has been possible to conduct this election due to the proper guidance of the government and Election Commission, the people's trust, and the candidates' adherence to the code of conduct. I believe the nation has received such a beautiful election through the combined efforts of the army, other law enforcement agencies, all officers and staff."

It is noteworthy that the army and other law enforcement agencies were in the field to ensure the 13th Parliamentary Election and referendum were free, fair and peaceful. Alongside law enforcement, executive magistrates were also deployed for the election. They will remain on duty until February 14.

Concerned returning officers worked in coordination with law enforcement authorities. The EC's central coordination cell also monitored the situation. The EC received round-the-clock information through the security app. The Election Commission had arranged everything necessary for a fear-free and hassle-free voting environment.

Meanwhile, Chief Adviser of the interim government Professor Muhammad Yunus expressed heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to the entire nation on Thursday evening for the peaceful, orderly and festive completion of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and the referendum on the implementation of the July National Charter.

In a statement, he said, "The spontaneous participation of voters, the responsible conduct of political parties, the restraint shown by candidates and the professionalism of all election-related institutions—this collective effort has proven that our commitment to democracy is unwavering. The people have played an active role in determining the country's future by exercising their constitutional rights."

He said, "I extend special thanks to the Election Commission, law enforcement agencies, armed forces, administration, observer teams, media personnel and all officials and employees involved in the voting process. It is because of their dedication and hard work that this vast democratic exercise has been successfully completed."

The Chief Adviser said, "I call upon political parties and candidates to maintain democratic decorum, tolerance and mutual respect even after the announcement of the final results. Differences of opinion will exist, but we must remain united in the national interest."

He said, "Bangladesh has once again proven that the people are the source of all power. We will collectively move forward in building an accountable, inclusive and justice-based state. This election is a great joy and festival for us. Through this, an unprecedented journey of the new Bangladesh has begun."

He further said, "This election has been the most peaceful and festive in the country's history. If this trend can be maintained, our democracy will reach the pinnacle of excellence. Let us all work together in this journey to strengthen democracy."