The implementation of two mega projects in Cox’s Bazar 2 constituency is providing a boost for the ruling Awami League as it bids to retain the seat in the upcoming 11th general election.
The construction of a coal-fired power plant and a deep sea port in the Matarbari area of Moheshkhali is helping to sway undecided voters ahead of the poll, which is slated for December 30.
Aiming to capitalise on the feelgood factor, several Awami League members are seeking nominations, while one aspirant from its Jatiya Party alliance partner is already busy campaigning.
However, no other parties including the main opposition BNP are yet visible in Cox’s Bazar 2, which comprises Moheshkhali and Kutubadia upazilas and has 296,081 registered voters.
Awami League aspirants
Awami League nomination hopefuls include the party’s Maheshkhali upazila unit general secretary and incumbent MP, Ashek Ullah Rafik.
He will be challenged by environmental scientist Ansarul Karim, Maheshkhali upazila parishad chair Hossain Ibrahim, the party’s Cox’s Bazar district unit president Sirajul Mostafa, former Chhatra League leader Osman Gani, and leaders Ismat Ara Begum Ismu and Sarwar Azam.
All of them are highlighting the government projects during their campaigns.
BNP nomination hopeful
Former MP Alamgir Muhammad Mahfuz Ullah Farid is seeking the BNP nomination in Cox’s Bazar 2.
However, the local party unit is divided over a conflict between Farid and the former state minister for communication, Salahuddin Ahmed.
BNP’s Cox’s Bazar district unit President Shahjahan Chowdhury said either aspirant will work for the candidate the party chooses.
Other parties
Jatiya Party central leader Md Mohibullah is seeking his party’s nomination in this seat, while former Jamaat MP AHM Hamidur Rahman Azad is likely to seek nomination if the party contests with the BNP-led 20-Party Alliance.