Umama Fatema poised to make her mark in upcoming election

In the ever-changing political landscape of Chittagong-2, Umama Fatema, a prominent leader from the July Uprising, is emerging as a possible candidate for the upcoming national elections. 

Having been at the forefront of the anti-autocracy movement, which started with the quota reform protests, Umama has shown remarkable courage and leadership. 

Known for her activism, she was actively involved in media interviews and protests, even when campuses were closed. 

Her vocal support for the cause has made her a respected figure among students and activists.

The Chittagong-2 seat, which has been without a dominant political figure for years, could see a significant change with Umama Fatema potentially entering the race. 

With her growing influence, many are speculating that she may contest from this constituency in the upcoming election.

Chittagong-2: A Constituency in Political Flux

Chittagong-2 comprises the Fatikchhari Upazila, a region that once had prominent political figures, including BNP leader Salauddin Quader Chowdhury, who held the seat until his execution. Following his downfall, the area has seen a lack of strong leadership. 

Syed Nazibul Bashar Maizbhandari of the Tariqat Federation claimed the seat twice during the Awami League’s rule, and in the 2024 elections, Khadijatul Anwar from the Awami League won the seat. Despite the Awami League’s win, political tensions remain high, with internal conflicts within the BNP.

The constituency has been a hotbed for religious votes, and Jamaat-e-Islami has been increasing its presence in the area. 

Political analysts believe that the influence of Jamaat and the rising discontent within the BNP could make this a competitive race.

Though BNP has yet to name a candidate, internal disagreements and unresolved issues in the constituency continue to complicate their prospects.

A Glimpse at Voting Trends and History

In the 2024 elections, the total number of voters in Chittagong-2 was 456,490, with Khadijatul Anwar of the Awami League winning the seat with 137,370 votes. 

Independent candidate Hossein Mohammad Abu Tayyab followed with 36,587 votes. 

Syed Nazibul Bashar Maizbhandari, who had previously held the seat, received just 213 votes.

In the 2018 elections, Syed Nazibul Bashar Maizbhandari emerged victorious with 238,430 votes, defeating his nearest competitor, Syed Saifuddin Ahmed Maizbhandari of the Islamic Front, who secured 10,174 votes. 

In the 2014 elections, when BNP opted to boycott, Maizbhandari won again with 125,357 votes.

In earlier elections, including 2008, 2001, 1996, and 1991, Chittagong-2 saw a mix of victories, with both Awami League and BNP gaining the seat at different points in time. 

The seat has been a fiercely contested one, but with shifting political alliances and changing dynamics, it remains to be seen who will claim the seat in the next election.

About Umama Fatema: A Rising Star

Umama Fatema, a Dhaka University student of Chemistry and Biochemistry, played a pivotal role in the quota reform movement and has become a face of student activism in Bangladesh. 

She was an active coordinator in the movement and led protests, even under difficult circumstances, becoming a symbol of resistance.

Along with being General Secretary of the Dhaka University Students’ Federation, Umama’s role in the anti-autocracy protests has only increased her visibility.

Now, Umama Fatema is being seen as a serious candidate for the Chittagong-2 seat. 

As a native of Chittagong, her potential candidacy could bring fresh perspectives to the constituency, which has long been in need of new leadership.

A Competitive Race Ahead

The main competitors in the constituency are already positioning themselves. BNP’s joint secretary in Chittagong North District, Sarwar Alam, and Fatikchhari Upazila’s convener Colonel Azim Ullah Bahar (retired), are some of the frontrunners for BNP’s nomination. 

Furthermore, Salauddin Quader Chowdhury’s son, Hummam Quader, is also rumored to be a potential candidate. 

Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami has nominated Professor Nurul Amin, the Secretary of Chittagong City Jamaat, for the seat.

Despite religious parties never having won the seat, they are known to secure a significant share of the vote. 

The upcoming election could see Jamaat strengthen its position by possibly forming an alliance with the Islamic Front. 

This could make them a formidable opponent, and Umama Fatema may find herself in direct competition with Jamaat-e-Islami for the seat.

With internal conflicts in BNP, an increasing religious influence, and a fresh candidate like Umama entering the fray, the political battle for Chittagong-2 is set to be a thrilling one. 

The race could prove to be a major turning point in the region’s political future.