First ballot, first responsibility: First-time voter’s step into history

For many young Bangladeshis preparing to cast their ballots for the first time, the moment feels far greater than a procedural exercise. It feels like standing at the edge of something fragile and unfinished. In 48 hours, the choices they make could either protect the hope born out of a historic movement or allow it to slip away.

For a generation that came of age during the July Uprising of 2024, a youth-led movement demanding fairness, security in jobs, and dignity in everyday life, this election is deeply personal.

Ahead of the upcoming national election and referendum scheduled for 12 February, I spoke to several young people to understand how they view their role in the electoral process at this pivotal juncture.

Their words carried a mix of responsibility, anticipation and cautious optimism; but above all, expectation.

"In rebuilding a new Bangladesh, this national parliamentary election is an extremely important pillar," said one first-time voter. "We are important stakeholders. The people we elect will represent us, and they will work to build the new Bangladesh."

She acknowledged that the weight of participation is significant. "It goes without saying that this is a huge responsibility. Of course, I see it as a responsibility," she said. "It is not a liability in any way."

Reflecting on the country's recent political climate, another first-time voter added, "The July Uprising 2024 was a very tough time. If we want to see something new, then we have to bring that change with our own hands."

For many young voters, this election carries emotional meaning. Some spoke of previous missed opportunities to vote. "I have never voted before," one interviewee said, describing a mix of anticipation and duty. "For me, it's also exciting to see how voting happens, how the votes are counted, and how the result comes out."

He said he plans to vote early and follow the process closely. "I will cast my vote in the morning and then wait for the results, even if it takes until 10 at night or the next day."

Participation, he stressed, is non-negotiable. "Voting is my fundamental right. As a voter, I feel that I should participate."

Young voters consistently framed this election as part of a broader period of change. "Now we are going through a change. Different reform proposals are coming," one interviewee noted. "For this change to happen, we all have to work together."

For them, the ballot is not symbolic, but rather strategic. "The question is: through whom do we want to bring change?" he asked. "We have to vote into power those who support change and want change."

Many see this election as an opportunity for youth representation. "Those of us who are young and voting this time, we will choose our representatives," one voter said. "Our words should be spoken in parliament."

Above all, fairness matters. "Since this is my first vote, if I can cast it, I will feel very good. And if it happens in a fair way, I will feel even better."

Summing up the sentiment of many in his generation, he added, "We, the new generation, will vote thoughtfully. Even if it's in a referendum to say 'yes,' we will go and vote."

From my conversations with these young voters, I came away with something stronger than cautious optimism; I came away with belief.

This generation is not detached; it is deliberate. They have tasted uncertainty, protested for reform, and now they are choosing participation over apathy.

In 48 hours, the outcome may shape the direction of their future, but what already feels irreversible is their engagement. They are showing up. They are thinking critically. They are claiming ownership of the democratic process.

Whatever the result, that determination itself carries hope; hope that the spirit of the post-uprising era will not fade, but will continue to push the country toward fairness, accountability and opportunity.