Salahuddin Ahmed, a member of the BNP National Standing Committee, has been elected with a large margin from Cox’s Bazar-1 (Chakaria-Pekua) constituency.
Following his victory, he said, “We will not celebrate this victory. Our responsibility is much greater. The burden of duty is heavier. We do not want to create any excitement through victory celebrations.”
He made these remarks while speaking the journalists at his residence in Pekua around 10:30pm on Thursday night.
Salahuddin Ahmed said the victory was expected for them. Referring to the public response across the country following the return of BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, he said they had understood the people’s mood from the widespread support and enthusiasm shown before and after the election.
He claimed that BNP is a “tested party of the masses” and has previously played a role in establishing democracy, a multi-party system, the rule of law, judicial independence and media freedom.
He acknowledged that mistakes can occur in running a state, but said the people of the country have judged that Bangladesh’s independence, sovereignty and security are safer in BNP’s hands. Mentioning Tarique Rahman’s declared plan, he said, “‘I Have a Plan’ is not just on paper; we have presented it to the people with examples.”
He also reiterated the pledge to build a technology-driven, merit-based and knowledge-based Bangladesh.
Speaking about his constituency, Salahuddin Ahmed said Chakaria-Pekua has long been deprived of development. He noted that even decades after independence, the region did not receive adequate development.
Recalling his childhood spent in the region, he said, “I completed my schooling walking through muddy roads. Since then, I have dreamed of doing something for this area if given the opportunity.”
Referring to his imprisonment and past hardships, he said he has taken part in many democratic struggles and endured difficult times.
Expressing gratitude to the people for their prayers and support, he said, “My responsibility to the country, to its people, and especially to the people of my constituency is immense. I will try to fulfill expectations beyond my promises.”
According to unofficial results, Salahuddin Ahmed secured 220,566 votes with the Sheaf of Paddy symbol. His nearest rival, Abdullah Al Faruk, received 124,726 votes with the Scales symbol. Salahuddin Ahmed won the seat by a margin of 95,840 votes.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Courtesy
