Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk-e-Azam Bir Protik. File photo

CHATTOGRAM, Feb 12, 2026 (BSS) - Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk-e-Azam Bir Protik today expressed deep satisfaction over the unprecedented festivity and enthusiasm during the opening hours of the 13th parliamentary elections and referendum.

He cast his vote at Bangladesh Women's Association School and College polling centre under the Chattogram-9 (Kotowali-Bakalia) constituency in the port city at around 7:35 am.

"People of all ages are enjoying the voting festival like Eid," Faruk-e-Azam told BSS immediately after casting his ballot at the very beginning of polling. 

"The supreme sacrifices made by our valiant sons, especially the younger generation during July Uprising, will become successful and meaningful through such a participatory and peaceful election."

The veteran freedom fighter said the entire world, particularly leading democratic nations and organizations including the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States and the United Nations, are closely observing the much-discussed 13th parliamentary polls and referendum.

He noted that the election is being held in the backdrop of the country's efforts to return to the democratic path following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led 16-year rule amid the student-mass July Uprising.

"If this peaceful and enthusiastic atmosphere continues until the end of voting, including the announcement of results and a smooth transition of power to an elected government, it will help restore and brighten Bangladesh's image on the global stage," he said.

Faruk-e-Azam said the orderly and vibrant environment he witnessed at various polling centres in the city and adjacent areas was highly encouraging for democracy-loving people.

Immediately after casting his vote, he began visiting several constituencies in the district, including Chattogram-5 (Hathazari-Bayezid), Chattogram-4 (Fatikchari), Chattogram-6 (Raozan) and Chattogram-7 (Rangunia), to observe the voting situation firsthand.

He said the interim government led by Prof. Muhammad Yunus has sincerely sought to hold the long-awaited national election in a free, fair, peaceful and festive atmosphere.

"Now the government's sole objective is being realized with the cooperation of all, including the Election Commission, political parties, administration, law enforcement agencies and the people as a whole," he added.