A small note for February 12

For the first time in 17 years, there is a festive mood surrounding the election in our country. My regret is that why I am not there to participate in this festival! Though I casted my vote for the first time, thanks to the Election Commission’s postal ballot but the true essence of voting feels different. Standing in line at the polling center, casting the vote in person, and getting that blue ink mark on the thumb, those moments are missing and that is giving me major fomo…Lucky are those who will be able to vote tomorrow. Please go to your designated center and cast your vote. This privilege we have now was earned because of July, because of our brothers and sisters who sacrificed their lives. Tomorrow is being possible only because of them…Now, all we want is, a free and fair election. And that will only be possible if everyone shows up at the polling centers and exercises their right to vote. As citizens, it is our duty and also a debt to those who fought their whole life for democracy.

No matter whom you vote for, hold them accountable if they win. Vote for a better Bangladesh. VOTE FOR BANGLADESH. Vote for a country where every religious, non-religious, atheist, and agnostic person will feel safe regardless of their beliefs. A Bangladesh where waaz mahfil, qawwali, ghazal, and bhajan can be performed freely. Where our culture and history will be celebrated as our own. Where Pahela Baishakh, Jashne Julus, and the annual oros of mazars will take place without fear! Vote for a Bangladesh where Durga Puja and Eid will be celebrated side by side, like how it’s happening for years in this land! Vote for a Bangladesh where men and women work together to build a better nation. A Bangladesh free from corruption, where businessmen and small vendors do not have to worry about giving chanda. A Bangladesh where future elections will also be free and fair…An economically strong Bangladesh! 

Whoever you vote for, make sure they uphold these values. And always put Bangladesh as their first and only priority!

Joy Bangladesh! Nirbachon Mubarak to All!