Advocate Mujibur Rahman Sarwar, BNP candidate for Barishal-5 (Sadar) constituency. Photo: BSS

BARISHAL, Jan 31, 2026 (BSS) - Advocate Mujibur Rahman Sarwar, BNP candidate for Barishal-5 (Sadar) constituency, has pledged to continue developing villages and towns, including improving the Bhola-Barisal connecting road.

He made the commitment in an exclusive interview with BSS ahead of the 13th National Parliament Election.

A former Prime Minister’s adviser and senior BNP leader Sarwar has been nominated for the fifth time for Barishal-5. He has served the BNP in Barishal for over 30 consecutive years, holding positions such as BNP’s Barishal district unit president, metropolitan unit president, Divisional organizing secretary, joint secretary general, and elected Member of Parliament for four times. He has also served as minister in-charge of Barishal division, whip, and city mayor.

In the interview with BSS District Correspondent Mofazzel Hossain, Sarwar highlighted BNP’s past contributions to the region.

BSS: What are your promises to the voters of your area?
Sarwar: BNP's role in the development of Barishal is the most important. I was elected MP and Mayor here several times.

“BNP has played a key role in the development of Barishal. During our tenure, we established Barisal Division, Barisal University, Barisal Engineering College, Teacher Training College, Barishal Model College, Dapadpia Bridge, roads, bridge-culverts, and other infrastructures,” he said.

“Now, the Bhola-Barishal connecting road construction is progressing, and people in villages should also enjoy city facilities. BNP has worked for Barishal’s development in the past and will continue to do so in the future if elected,” he added. 

BSS: What are your instructions to the leaders and activists to follow the election code of conduct?

Sarwar: The election code of conduct must be followed. The code of conduct is a very difficult matter. As many do not know this, more publicity is needed so that the leaders and activists can learn more
Regarding the election code of conduct, Sarwar urged party leaders and activists to strictly comply with Election Commission regulations. “The code of conduct is a difficult matter that many do not understand, so awareness building is crucial. I have already instructed our leaders and activists to follow it strictly, and I am confident they will do that,” he added.

BSS: What is your position on the referendum?
Sarwar: A referendum is necessary, but the public should be made more aware. We are informing people in favor of a ‘yes’ vote, and our party leaders and activists are actively promoting it.

BSS: What are your expectations about the upcoming national elections?
Sarwar:  I am optimistic about the national elections, emphasizing the importance of accountability and democracy. “With a bicameral parliament, other democratic institutions will function well. Justice, rule of law, and peace will be ensured, and people will regain their right to vote after 16 long years. I believe the elections will be free, fair, and impartial, restoring democracy in the country.

Barishal-5 constituency, comprising Barishal City Corporation and 10 unions, has 493,950 registered voters, including 246,943 male, 247,000 female, and 7 third-gender voters. This constituency is considered a BNP stronghold, and candidates from BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Jatiya Party, and Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal are contesting. A tough fight is expected, particularly with the Islamic alliance.