The 13th National Parliamentary Election will be held on February 12, 2026, a vote widely seen as a historic moment in Bangladesh’s political journey. This election comes after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government following a popular uprising and coincides with a constitutional referendum on the July Charter, making it a defining event for the country’s future.
In Cox’s Bazar, the election countdown has created a festive yet tense atmosphere. With only days left, voters in this coastal district—home to the world’s longest sea beach and the centre of the Rohingya refugee crisis—are preparing to shape both local and national politics through their ballots.
Intense race in four constituencies Cox’s Bazar has four parliamentary constituencies—Cox’s Bazar-1, 2, 3 and 4—where election campaigns have reached their peak. Candidates are campaigning from morning until late night, visiting villages, wards, unions and urban neighbourhoods. Door-to-door outreach, rallies and meetings dominate daily life.
Political observers describe the vote equation as complex. While Cox’s Bazar has long been considered a BNP stronghold, Jamaat-e-Islami is now challenging that dominance. Young voters, many of whom are voting for the first time, are expected to play a decisive role.
Two nationally significant figures are contesting from the district: BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed and Jamaat-e-Islami Central Assistant Secretary General Hamidur Rahman Azad. As a result, the Cox’s Bazar races are being closely watched across the country.
Analysts say the election is not only about changing power, but also about security, development and governance in a strategically important district. The main contest in all four seats is between BNP and Jamaat, raising the stakes for national politics as well.
Although the Awami League gained influence in the district in recent years, it is not contesting this election. Candidates from rival parties are openly trying to attract Awami League supporters by making governance and development promises.
Young voters, in particular, say they want politics free from extortion, corruption and violence. Many have been closely observing party activities for over a year and are expected to vote based on performance and discipline rather than slogans.
Party positions BNP leaders claim Cox’s Bazar remains their traditional stronghold and express confidence in winning all four seats. They say party unity and grassroots mobilisation are strengthening their position.
Jamaat leaders, on the other hand, describe this election as a chance to “change the direction of the nation” and fulfil the aspirations of the July movement. They claim public support has increased significantly and say they are optimistic about victory in all constituencies.
Voter statistics According to the District Election Office, Cox’s Bazar has 1,849,992 voters across four constituencies, Male voters: 980,653 and Female voters: 869,331. In the previous election, the total voter count was 1,650,960. This year, 198,397 new voters have been added.
Constituency-wise overview:
Cox’s Bazar–1 (Chakaria–Pekua) Voters: 540,390 (Male: 290,291 & Female: 250,099)
Jamaat’s Enamul Haque Manju won this seat in 1991, but BNP’s Salahuddin Ahmed took control in 1996 and later became a state minister. This time, Salahuddin Ahmed (BNP) faces Muhammad Abdullah Al Farooq (Jamaat). Voters see the race as a test of personal popularity versus organisational strength.
Cox’s Bazar–2 (Maheshkhali–Kutubdia) Voters (approx.): 387,851 (Male: 206,456 & Female: 181,395) This island constituency centres on development issues linked to the deep-sea port and coal-based power project. The main contenders are Hamidur Rahman Azad (Jamaat) and Alamgir Muhammad Mahfuzullah Farid (BNP), both former MPs.
Cox’s Bazar–3 (Sadar–Ramu–Eidgaon) Voters: 545,962(Male: 291,100 & Female: 254,862) As a tourism-focused area, voters prioritise traffic management, urban planning, tourism reform and cost of living. Jamaat candidate Shahidul Alam Bahadur (VP Bahadur) is contesting against BNP’s former MP Lutfur Rahman Kajal.
Cox’s Bazar–4 (Ukhia–Teknaf) Voters: 375,682(Male: 192,806 &Female: 182,876). This constituency is shaped by the Rohingya crisis, drug trafficking and border security. The main contest is expected between BNP’s Shahjahan Chowdhury and Jamaat’s Nur Ahmed. Voters demand firm action against drugs and human trafficking.
What voters say Local businessman Abdul Karim said he wants Cox’s Bazar developed not only as a tourist destination, but as a modern, planned city.
Teacher Nasima Akhter stressed the need for better education and healthcare, especially quality schools and children’s hospitals.
Lawyer Arup Barua Topu said competitive elections are welcome, but peace and cooperation are essential.
Senior voter Md Mustafa said, “This time the calculation is different. We want a leader who understands the people and can present Cox’s Bazar with dignity to the world.”
As voters head to the polls in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, the people of Cox’s Bazar are not just choosing candidates. They are voting for their vision of development, security and dignity—hoping to shape the future of a district rich in potential but burdened by challenges.
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