Face-to-face between BNP and Jamaat on Shahporir Island, Teknaf

PNN News Desk, Dhaka

Shahporir Island in Teknaf, located nearly 500 km from Dhaka at the southeastern frontier, is currently focused on the upcoming national parliamentary election, despite nearby unrest in Myanmar.

In the Cox’s Bazar-4 constituency, which includes Ukhiya and Teknaf upazilas, four candidates are contesting: Shahjahan Chowdhury (BNP, Sheaf of Paddy), Nur Ahmad Anowari (Jamaat, Daripalla), Nurul Haque (Islami Andolan, Hatpakha), and Saifuddin Khaled (NDM, Singha).

Interviews with locals reveal the main contest is between BNP and Jamaat. Shahjahan Chowdhury is a familiar political figure in Ukhiya, while Nur Ahmad Anowari is a long-time representative in Teknaf with a strong organizational base from over two decades as Union Parishad chairman.

A senior shopkeeper on the island said that despite being a long-time BNP supporter, he plans to vote for Jamaat this time, citing increased competition in the constituency. Others, like Sabrang Union businessman Nurul Alam, believe BNP will ultimately lead. Auto-rickshaw driver Mr. Rafik commented that election excitement is lower this time, partly due to the absence of a major political party.

Preparations for BNP’s election meeting were visible on Sunday afternoon, with Shahjahan Chowdhury noting peaceful conditions but concerns about potential conflicts fueled by social media misinformation and election fraud.

With over 371,000 voters, including roughly equal numbers of men and women, local observers believe women, youth, and Awami League supporters will play a crucial role in determining the outcome. Historically, the Awami League has had strong influence, though its active presence this election appears limited. Shahjahan Chowdhury hopes to capture part of the Awami League vote, while Nur Ahmad Anowari anticipates the party’s previous activities may divide their votes.

Overall, in this border-adjacent constituency, the focus is less on election security and more on competition, vote calculations, and who leads or trails