Thursday marked a pivotal day in Bangladesh as Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, chief advisor to the interim government, arrived at Gulshan Model High School and College in Dhaka at approximately 10:20 AM to vote in the 13th parliamentary polls. In his first remarks to journalists afterward, Yunus proclaimed the elections as nothing less than ‘the birthday of a new Bangladesh.’
Yunus painted a picture of national jubilation, insisting the country has decisively shaken off its haunting past. His appeal was clear: every Bangladeshi must turn out for the parliamentary vote and referendum. He capped his message with warm Eid felicitations, infusing the atmosphere with unity and festivity.
Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin shared similar enthusiasm post-voting in the capital. He envisioned the process as a ‘festival-like gift’ to the democracy-hungry nation, analogizing voters to joyful Eid returnees. Having consulted numerous global observers lately, Nasir Uddin confirmed their delight with logistical excellence.
Candidate Nasiruddin Patwari of the National Citizen Party (NCP), allied with Jamaat in Dhaka-8, braved concerns over late-night attacks on aides to praise the serene voting scene. From Ramabag High School polling station, he assured, ‘No disruptions all morning; the mood is excellent.’ Optimistic about his chances, Patwari tied his campaign to slain leader Usman Hadi, murdered in December 2025 by assailants on motorcycles. Rushed to Singapore, Hadi died, unleashing waves of arson and clashes nationwide.
With echoes of that tragedy still fresh, today’s elections symbolize resilience. Yunus’s bold declaration underscores a collective aspiration for rebirth, setting the stage for Bangladesh to redefine its political destiny.