First-time voters turn out in force

First-time voters turned out in large numbers across the capital on Thursday, many expressing enthusiasm and high expectations for political and institutional change.

For these young citizens, the 13th national election represents more than a routine exercise in democracy - it is an opportunity to reshape governance and secure a better future.

Alongside the parliamentary vote, many newly registered voters also voiced support for the referendum, hoping it would pave the way for structural reforms and a more accountable state system.

The newly enlisted young voters were visibly enthusiastic as they cast their ballots, saying they wanted changes in the state structure and democratic landscape through this national poll.

Many said they expect the newly elected leaders to generate employment opportunities for young people and ensure a safe and secure country.

Supporting the referendum, most first-time voters interviewed also expressed hope for major reforms in state and government structures, in line with political parties' pledges to strengthen governance.

A Financial Express team visited at least 18 constituencies across the capital, speaking to young voters who appeared to be enjoying the experience of voting and choosing their preferred candidates.

An excited 20-year-old student, Yasir Arafat, at the MDC Model Institute centre under the Dhaka-16 constituency, said: "We are hopeful of change in the country's governing system, where everyone respects each other. The leaders should establish a safe and secure country."

He also expressed expectations of job creation and economic progress from the government to be elected in Thursday's 13th general election.

Obontika, a 21-year-old honours student voting under the Dhaka-15 constituency, said she expects better governance and decent employment opportunities, particularly for women.

First-time voter Samia Rahman, an engineering student at BRAC University under Dhaka-9, said she felt energised while casting her vote. She hoped that whoever wins would respect the people's mandate and prioritise development in the national interest.

Zakir Hossain, a student at Aboy Binodini High School under Dhaka-9, said he felt satisfied after voting for the first time and hoped the election would bring positive changes in leadership and the broader political landscape.

Jahid Hasan Parvez (30), who voted at the Dhaka Education Board High School and College centre under Dhaka-14, said he expects decent jobs for young people and stronger democratic practices in the days ahead.

Eighteen-year-old Nusrat Arefin, a student at Siddeswari Girls' College, showed her ink-marked thumb after voting at the World View International School centre in West Rampura under Dhaka-11. "It's a great feeling," she said.

Liza Akhter, an intern doctor in the Pallabi area under Dhaka-16, said she hopes to see meaningful change and improved democratic practices in the coming years.

Nabila Md Habibullah, 34, said she had initially planned to skip voting but later decided to cast her ballot for the first time. A voter under Dhaka-12 at the BG Press Government Primary School centre in Begunbari, she said she was impressed by the orderly environment.

"The officials were very helpful, and the overall experience was enjoyable," she added.

Nurjahan Hossain (26), a Computer Science and Engineering student at East West University, voted at Gendaria Mohila Samity Government Primary School under Dhaka-6.

"My expectations are much higher this time," she said. "I have come to vote because the election is being held in a free, fair and credible manner."

She expressed hope that the next government would ensure a peaceful and stable environment and safeguard citizens' rights, particularly women's safety.

Another 18-year-old voter, Shimanto, also from Dhaka-6, said: "As a fair election is being held, we have high expectations of the newly elected government. We want peace and stability in society."

He added that rising prices of essential goods remain a pressing concern and urged the incoming government to address inflation seriously.

Across constituencies, the voices of young voters reflected a common aspiration: a more accountable political system, improved economic prospects and a secure, inclusive future.