Where the country’s sports stars will cast their votes?

Ahead of Thursday’s 13th National Parliament election, several of Bangladesh’s top athletes are preparing to vote in their hometowns.

Shekh Morsalin, attacking midfielder of the national football team, will vote in Char Bhadrasan, Faridpur. He said, “Due to sports commitments, I haven’t voted before. This is my first time, and I will vote for a candidate who works for the country and considers the youth.”

Nigar Sultana Joty, captain of the women’s cricket team, will cast her ballot in Sherpur Sadar, noting, “Voting is our democratic right. I will vote for a candidate who will work for the welfare of ordinary citizens.”

Sabina Khatun, women’s football team captain, will vote in Satkhira. She added, “This is my first election. I want to vote for a capable candidate to promote local development and sports in the region.”

Amirul Islam, World Cup hockey top scorer, will vote at his home in Faridpur. The 20-year-old said, “I will vote for someone who works selflessly for my area and the country.”

The 13th parliamentary election will be held on February 12, with 51 political parties participating. Several parties, including the Awami League, its ally Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD), the Workers Party, and Abdul Kader Siddique’s Krishak Sramik Janata League, are not contesting this election.