For all latest news, follow the Daily Sun's Google News channel.
With an increase of 368,120 voters, Chattogram is preparing to hold the 13th parliamentary election and referendum, in line with the rest of the country.
Election insiders say newly enlisted voters, particularly those from Generation Z, could prove decisive this time.
Law enforcement agencies have identified 653 of the total 1,965 polling centres in the district as “highly risky”. However, returning officers insist that extensive security arrangements, including the deployment of more than 40,000 personnel, are in place to ensure a peaceful vote.
A total of 112 executive magistrates will be on duty across Chattogram city and district, which together comprise 16 parliamentary constituencies.
According to the District Election Office, the voter roll now stands at 6,682,517 across the 16 seats.
The Election Commission says all preparations have been completed, with multilayered security measures across both metropolitan and district areas to guarantee a free, fair and peaceful election.
Three returning officers are overseeing the process.
Divisional Commissioner Md Ziauddin is responsible for Chattogram city and five adjoining constituencies, Deputy Commissioner Md Jahidul Islam Miah is overseeing 10 upazila constituencies, while Regional Election Officer Mohammad Belayet Hossain Chowdhury is in charge of one city seat.
Officials said ballot papers for all constituencies were delivered to assistant returning officers’ offices on Monday, while other election materials had been dispatched earlier.
Senior District Election Officer Mohammad Bashir Ahmed said, “All preparations for the parliamentary election have been completed.
Training of polling officials concluded last Sunday. Ballot papers and election materials have already been sent to assistant returning officers’ offices. Everyone is ready for polling.”
115 candidates in the fray
A total of 115 candidates are contesting the election across Chattogram’s 16 constituencies.
Of the 6,682,517 registered voters, 3,483,887 are male, 3,198,560 female and 70 hijra voters.
The voter roll has grown by 368,120 compared to the 12th parliamentary election, held about two years ago, when the number stood at 6,314,397.
Voting will take place at 1,965 polling centres and 12,595 polling booths, down from 2,023 centres and 13,732 booths in the previous election – a reduction of 58 centres and 1,137 booths.
653 centres marked ‘highly risky’
Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Aminur Rashid said that of the 607 polling centres under CMP jurisdiction, 310 have been classified as highly important after assessing various risk factors.
In the district areas, 343 centres have also been labelled highly important, according to Additional Superintendent of Police (DB) Mohammad Russel.
He said a technology-driven Operations Command and Control Room has been set up at the district police superintendent’s office to monitor risk-based centres and track the live locations of mobile and striking forces.
A home ministry directive issued on 7 January stipulates that highly important polling centres in metropolitan areas must have four armed police personnel, two armed Ansar members, 10 baton-equipped police, and female Ansar members deployed at each centre.
Other centres will be guarded by three armed police personnel, two armed Ansar members, 10 baton-equipped police, and female Ansar members.
Gen-Z voters emerge as key force
Young voters, commonly referred to as Gen-Z, are expected to play a crucial role in shaping Chattogram’s electoral outcome. More than 300,000 young voters – many voting for the first time – are likely to participate.
This generation, which played a leading role in the 2024 movement, is generally less aligned with traditional party politics and more focused on governance, transparency and accountability.
Political analysts also believe postal votes from expatriates – historically influential in Chattogram – could affect results in several constituencies.
Political analyst Dr Mohammad Safiul Islam said, “Whichever way young voters and expatriates lean, the balance of victory will tilt in that direction, especially in closely contested seats.” Political landscape and voter mood
In the absence of the Awami League from the contest, the main battle is expected to be between the BNP and Jamaat-led political alliances.
Abchhar Mia, an elderly resident seen sitting at a tea stall in the city’s Kazir Dewri area, said, “After many years, it feels like my vote might actually count. But I will only go to the polling centre if I believe the election will be fair.”
Chattogram Superintendent of Police Mohammad Nazir Ahmed Khan said, “We are committed to ensuring a festive and secure environment. Patrols have been increased in every alley so voters can come to polling centres without fear. No form of disorder will be tolerated.”
Analysts note that voters traditionally aligned with the Awami League could still play a decisive role in several constituencies if they turn out.
Dr Safiul added that while many Awami League activists may stay away from polling centres, those supporters who do vote are likely to make independent choices, potentially influencing close contests.
Votes from religious minority communities in areas such as Raozan, Rangunia, Boalkhali, Patiya and Banshkhali are also expected to be significant.
Security blanket in place
Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer Md Jahidul Islam Miah told the Daily Sun that Chattogram district has been placed under a comprehensive security blanket.
“More than 40,000 members of law enforcement agencies are deployed in the field and 112 executive magistrates will remain vigilant,” he said.
“Every polling centre is under the coverage of striking forces. If any untoward incident occurs, forces are planned to reach the spot within five minutes.”
Expressing optimism, he said authorities were confident of delivering a credible, acceptable and internationally standard election by ensuring equal vigilance at all polling centres.