First-time voters embrace a festival of democracy

A first-time voter from Feni, Nasrin Sultana, felt Eid-like atmosphere as she cast her vote in the first “fear-free” parliamentary election 

“The voting procedure was smooth and violence-free, so every woman went to the polling centre and joined the election festival,” she said. 

She further said that whoever wins should respect the people’s mandate, avoid authoritarianism and prioritise public interests over personal gain.

Like Nasrin, hundreds of thousands of new voters cast ballots for the first time in the 13th National Election, describing the experience as festive, peaceful and deeply emotional.

Md Seyam from Pirojpur called voting the most pleasing moment of his life. “By exercising voting rights, people not only choose their representatives but also determine the future of the country.”

“When I cast my ballot, I felt a different kind of satisfaction. A small decision can shape the fate of a country,” he added.

Nahid Hasan, a voter from Dhaka, said people from all walks of life participated enthusiastically.

“I went to at least five centres in my area. There was a unique excitement as people arrived, cast their votes and captured the moment with photos. It was truly heartwarming,” he said, adding that the sacrifices of the martyrs were not in vain.

Sohanur Rahman from Sherpur said election fever had begun days earlier, with many travelling home to vote. 

“On the Brahmaputra train, everyone was excited to finally cast their votes freely,” he said.

He added that he found long queues at his polling station around noon and was happy to vote in a free atmosphere.

Many young voters said they were inspired by the spirit of the 2024 uprising and wanted to help build a future based on democracy and justice.

“I realised after the July uprising that everyone should have the right to vote,” said Sadia Sharmin from Narayanganj. “We read in books that voting is a right of every citizen of a democratic state, and it is being applied for the first time in my life.”

She said the day would remain unforgettable and hoped voting rights would remain a top priority for any government.

Two friends, Sahina Akter and Sahid Yasmin, who voted at a centre in Nakhalpara in the capital, said they believed the spirit of the July movement would be reflected in the election.

Farhan Islam, a private university student, said the next government must uphold that spirit. “Gen-Z will take their decision again if they fail to do so in the future,” he added.

Daily Sun reporters observed a strong presence of young voters at polling centres across Dhaka. At the Ideal School and College centre in Banasree, turnout among young voters was particularly high.

Maruf Ahmed, who arrived with two friends, said they came “in a picnic-like mood” because of the peaceful environment. “Whoever wins should focus on development and take steps to prevent corruption and terrorist activities,” he said.

The reporter can be reached at: [email protected]