Voting has started in Bangladesh for its first contested presidential election in over three decades. Lawmakers are casting ballots to elect the country’s 23rd president. The voting is happening at the Jatiya Sangsad (parliament) and will conclude by 5 p.m. local time.
Two candidates are running: Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir from the ruling BNP and Colonel Oli Ahmed, representing the opposition alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami. The election uses an open ballot system, and the results will be announced after counting is completed.
The current acting president is Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, following Mohammed Shahabuddin’s resignation due to health issues. Under the Constitution, a new president must be elected within 90 days of the vacancy.
Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, nominated by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is seen as the strong favorite due to the BNP’s majority in parliament. During a recent meeting, Alamgir emotionally appealed for support from lawmakers, pledging to uphold Bangladesh’s sovereignty.
If elected, Alamgir will serve as a ceremonial head of state, with key roles including appointing the prime minister and chief justice. However, his nomination is seen as part of the BNP’s strategy to potentially increase presidential powers through constitutional amendments.
Alamgir has a long political career, starting as a student activist during Bangladesh’s early years. He has held various government positions and was a key leader in the BNP during challenging times.
The election marks an important step in Bangladesh’s political process, with results expected later this week.