Barguna, Feb 7 (V7N) — Political activity has intensified in the Barguna-2 constituency, comprising Patharghata, Bamna, and Betagi, ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election. Posters, banners, and online campaigns are visible across the area, yet voter reactions remain mixed.

Although nine candidates are contesting the election, only three have emerged as familiar and widely discussed figures among voters. The remaining six candidates are largely unknown to the electorate, resulting in noticeable voter disinterest toward them.

During visits to local markets and neighborhoods, voters were found frequently discussing BNP heavyweight candidate Md. Nurul Islam Moni, contesting with the party symbol Sheaf of Paddy. A former member of parliament, Moni is well known across the constituency and maintains a strong grassroots presence backed by a long political career, keeping him at the center of the race.

Another prominent contender is Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Dr. Sultan Ahmed, contesting with the Scales symbol. Actively engaged in campaigning for an extended period, he benefits from the party’s organized voter base and a reputation for personal integrity. Party leaders believe he will secure significant support, particularly from female voters.

Also active in the field is Islamic Andolon Bangladesh candidate Md. Mizanur Rahman, contesting with the Hand Fan symbol. He has been campaigning extensively from Patharghata to Betagi, focusing on religious and social activities to build a broad support base.

The other six candidates remain largely unfamiliar to voters. They include Md. Sabbir Ahmed of Bangladesh Congress (Coconut Tree), Md. Kamruzzaman Liton of Bangladesh National Party (Jackfruit), Abdul Latif Foraji of Jatiya Party (Plough), Syed Md. Najes Afroz of the National Democratic Movement (Lion), Md. Solaiman of the National People’s Party (Mango), and independent candidate Md. Rashed Uddin Jaman (Ship).

Local voter Kabir from Patharghata Bazar said that while he hears many names on television and social media, he rarely sees most candidates in person. He added that he recognizes Nurul Islam Moni and Dr. Sultan Ahmed but knows little about the others.

Farmer Abdul Latif from Betagi echoed similar sentiments, saying candidates often appear only during election periods and remain absent during times of need, making voters more inclined to support familiar figures.

Political analysts attribute the lack of voter recognition primarily to insufficient long-term grassroots engagement by smaller parties. They note that many minor parties nominate candidates only as elections approach, limiting meaningful connections with voters. Analysts say the effectiveness of late-stage campaigning remains to be seen.

Many politically aware voters in the constituency believe the final contest will likely be between the Sheaf of Paddy and the Scales candidates, though whether an unfamiliar contender can produce a surprise will only be known on election day.

The Barguna-2 constituency has a total of 337,744 registered voters, including 169,775 women, 167,965 men, and four voters registered under the third gender category. The constituency has 122 polling centers.

END/MRR/SMA/