Nearly 5cr young voters set to shape election outcome

Young voters are set to hold the balance as Bangladesh heads to the polls in the 13th national parliamentary election and the concurrent referendum today. According to the Election Commission (EC), nearly 5 crore citizens aged 18–35 are eligible to vote – almost 40% of the country's 12.77 crore-strong electorate, making youth turnout a potential game-changer.

EC data shows 85.31 lakh voters aged 18-21, 1.19 crore aged 22-25, 1.22 crore aged 26-29, and 1.07 crore aged 30-33. Balloting will be held at 42,779 polling stations nationwide, with 6.48 crore male voters, 6.28 crore female voters, and 1,232 hijra voters. Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud expects turnout to cross 60%, citing palpable enthusiasm across the country.

Analysts say the younger generation is not cut from the same cloth as traditional voters. Their priorities lean toward jobs, education, technology, and modern opportunities. Comfortable with digital platforms and quick to sift through information, they tend to judge candidates on competence, transparency, and accountability – factors that could tip the scales in tight races.

Former Election Reform Commission member and ex-EC secretariat Additional Secretary Jesmin Tuli cautioned against painting young voters with one brush, noting that varied factors such as family, social, and political influences shape their choices.

On the ground, expectations are running high. Sarifuzzaman Sharif, a voter from Rangpur, said, "I hope the law and order situation remains stable so we can vote without fear. I believe this time it will be a free and fair election." 

First-time voter Roksana Ferdous added, "I will vote based on the candidate's merit, not the symbol of a party. A capable MP will be best for the country." Tuni Chakma from Rangamati said, "We are hoping for the best election this time. Since the national election coincides with the referendum, organising mock votes in villages would have helped raise awareness."

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin urged, "Young people will not only cast ballots themselves, but also encourage others to vote. They are the symbol of courage and creativity. Without them, building the country is impossible."