LALMONIRHAT, Feb 3, 2026 (BSS) - With the 13th National Parliament elections approaching in the second month of the year, enthusiasm and expectations have surged among voters in Lalmonirhat district. 

Residents are viewing voting as a fundamental pillar of democracy and a basic civil right, with many first-time and previously disengaged voters expressing renewed interest in participating.

A festive atmosphere now prevails across the district, as people openly discuss candidates, election issues, and the overall political situation. Voters are hopeful that honest, qualified, and accountable representatives will be elected, capable of ensuring citizen security, sustainable employment, and good governance.

Key demands raised by voters include a fair share of Teesta river water, implementation of the Teesta Master Plan, improved road connectivity, modernization of land ports, quality healthcare services, elimination of drug abuse, employment opportunities for women, renovation of the local airport, industrialization, and the development of education and technology sectors.

Bablu Master, a school teacher from Panchagram union under the district headquarters, said, “We hope to contribute to national development by exercising our right to vote in a free and impartial environment.”

Ayub Ali and Nazmul Haque, roadside nut sellers at Barabari Bazar, emphasized the importance of a peaceful voting environment. “Our main demand is to cast our votes without fear. It is also important that elected representatives fulfill their promises,” they said.

Tumpa Akhter, a voter from Aditmari upazila, said, “Voting is the right of every citizen. The future of the country can be shaped through collective participation.”

Farmer Hazrat Ali from Barakhata union in Hatibandha upazila expressed hope that whichever government comes to power they would focus on genuine development of the area.

First-time voter Riaz Hossain from Baura union in Patgram upazila said he wants to support a candidate who will sincerely work for local development after being elected.

Candidates contesting the elections also stressed the need for transparency and protection of voter rights. 

A total of 21 candidates are competing across Lalmonirhat’s three parliamentary constituencies, representing BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, Jatiya Party, Bangladesh Communist Party, Bangladesh Nationalist Front (BNF), Islamic Andolan Bangladesh, Janatar Dal, Amar Bangladesh Party, Gana Sanghati Andolan, as well as independent candidates.

Barrister Hasan Rajib Pradhan, a candidate of the Sheaf of Paddy symbol in Lalmonirhat-1 constituency, urged the administration to ensure a transparent and impartial election.

Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Advocate Firoz Haider Lavlu of Lalmonirhat-2 constituency said efforts would continue to ensure voters can freely exercise their rights, while BNP candidate Md Rokon Uddin Babul said his party remains committed to meeting public expectations.

In Lalmonirhat-3 constituency, Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Advocate Abu Taher pledged to build a society free from extortion and drugs, based on justice and fairness. Deepak, a candidate from the Mass Solidarity Movement, promised sustainable employment, modern communication systems, and improved education and healthcare.

BNP candidate Asadul Habib Dulu, contesting in all three seats, said all political parties should celebrate the election as a democratic festival while ensuring the protection of voters’ rights.

District Election Officer Md Kamrul Islam said all necessary preparations have been completed to ensure safe and fair polling. “Voters will be able to cast their ballots without fear,” he said.

Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate HM Rakib Haider warned that any attempts at vote rigging, intimidation, or occupation of polling centers would not be tolerated. “A zero-tolerance policy has been adopted to prevent any irregularities,” he added.

According to the District Election Office, Lalmonirhat has a total of 1,144,496 voters across its three constituencies, including 574,067 male voters, 570,422 female voters, and seven third-gender voters.