As the 13th Jatiya Sangsad election approaches, Benapole—the port town in Jashore—was awash with processions on the very first day of campaigning by BNP-nominated candidate Alhaj Nuruzzaman Liton in Jashore-1 (Sharsha) constituency, following the allocation of electoral symbols.

On Thursday afternoon (January 22), a colourful rally was brought out at Benapole Bazar under the initiative of the municipal BNP, with the participation of thousands of party leaders and activists. The procession started from Benapole Bald Field and marched along the main roads of Benapole Customs and the port area before concluding with a brief rally.

During the march, activists were seen carrying banners, festoons and placards bearing the party’s electoral symbol—the sheaf of paddy. Slogans calling for votes in favour of the sheaf of paddy and urging people to cast a “yes” vote echoed throughout the area. The rally passed off peacefully, with a large number of leaders, activists and supporters in attendance.

Later, addressing the gathering, BNP-nominated candidate Nuruzzaman Liton spoke to the supporters.

The rally was led by municipal BNP President Nazim Uddin and General Secretary Abu Taher Bharta. Others present included Sharsha Upazila BNP Labour Affairs Secretary Shahid Ali, Vice President Atikuzzaman Soni, Joint General Secretary Meher Ullah, Organising Secretary Akhtar Hossain, BNP leaders Mofizur Rahman Sajan, Chairman Habibur Rahman Habi, Nasimul Gani Boltu, former municipal commissioner Ahad Ali, Sharsha Upazila Jubo Dal President Mostafizzzohha Selim, General Secretary Imdad Hossain, Joint Secretary Shahidul Islam Shahid, among others.