Bangladesh has elected senior politician Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir as its 23rd President. Yesterday, after voting for the presidential election concluded in the chamber of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Returning Officer, A.M.M. Nasir Uddin, announced the result.
In the election, BNP candidate Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir defeated Colonel (Retd.) Oli Ahmed, the candidate of the Jamaat-led 11-party alliance. Out of a total of 343 valid votes, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir received 255 votes, while Colonel (Retd.) Oli Ahmed received 88 votes.
At this auspicious moment of democratic transition and development, we extend our heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the newly elected President of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.
After a long 35 years, voting was held in the much-anticipated presidential election. Previously, following the restoration of the parliamentary system of government in 1991, the first presidential election by vote was held that same year.
Since then, seven presidents have been elected unopposed. This is only the second time that members of parliament have cast their votes in a presidential election, which is significant for the country’s political development.
Earlier yesterday, Acting President and Speaker of the National Parliament Hafiz Uddin Ahmad formally bid farewell from Bangabhaban. Following the resignation of President Mohammed Shahabuddin on July 24, he assumed the responsibilities of Acting President of the country.
The people of Bangladesh are pleased and hopeful that Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the longest-serving Secretary General of the BNP and a visionary politician, has been elected the country’s new President.
Today, he is assuming his new responsibilities through the oath-taking ceremony. Indeed, he is a well-known and respected figure in national politics. During his student years, Mr. Alamgir was associated with a left-wing organization and later became a leader of the Krishak Dal.
For a long period, he has stood at the forefront of the struggle to restore democracy and secure the rights of the people, providing leadership in that effort. Having traversed the many ups and downs of political life, the patience, restraint, and foresight he has demonstrated are exceptional in modern politics.
In his professional career, Mr. Alamgir served as a professor of economics at a government college and also earned respect and admiration in the broader political arena. His reputation as a cultured, soft-spoken, disciplined, and clean politician is widely recognized.
The President of Bangladesh is the constitutional head of state and guardian of the nation. He is a symbol of national unity. Regardless of political party or ideology, he is expected to be a respected figure for all.
Therefore, at a time when there is a growing aspiration to restore unity, solidarity, and democratic values in national life, the assumption of this office by an experienced politician such as Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir carries particular significance.
We believe that, as President, he will always play a positive role in creating an atmosphere of peace, mutual respect, greater understanding, and cooperation within the national political arena.
In particular, his thoughtful and guiding role is expected in upholding the rule of law, strengthening democratic institutions, and fostering a healthy political culture while maintaining stability. We hope that, through his knowledge and wisdom, he will be able to discharge his constitutional responsibilities properly.
As President, his impartial outlook will further strengthen the country’s administrative and democratic structures. At the same time, his experience will serve as a valuable asset in maintaining Bangladesh’s image and standing in the international arena.
We firmly hope that he will continue to inspire civil society and the younger generation to uphold and nurture democratic ideals.
At this momentous occasion of assuming office as the new President, we pray to the Almighty for his good health, long life, and a successful tenure.
It is our expectation that, embodying the hopes and aspirations of the people, he will discharge his constitutional responsibilities and lead Bangladesh toward a prosperous and democratic future. Once again, congratulations to the newly elected Honorable President, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.