Since Thursday morning, actors, directors and singers have been visiting polling stations across the capital and other parts of the country to cast their votes.
Many have shared photos and reflections from the moment on social media.
However, the message from the country’s leading rock star, Faruq Mahfuz Anam James, stood out somewhat. He thanked the interim government for delivering a “hassle-free” national election.
At around 3:30 pm, he cast his vote at Baridhara Scholar School and College in the Baridhara DOHS area of the capital, which falls under the Dhaka-17 constituency.
As James entered the polling station, fans gathered around him. He obliged requests for selfies from voters as well as members of the law enforcement agencies and election officials on duty.
Reacting after casting his ballot, James said, “A beautiful democratic process is what makes a country. Whoever comes next, this continuity should be maintained. May peace prevail in the country and may the people prosper.”
He also commented on the election environment and arrangements, saying, “Everything was very smooth. I arrived, collected my slip, cast my vote — all very straightforward. There was no trouble. Thanks to the current interim government for this.”
After voting, James encouraged other members of his band to cast their ballots as well. He telephoned several members to inform them that he had voted and to check on the others.