In the aftermath of the 2024 uprising, Noakhali-5, long considered a stronghold of Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader, witnessed a fierce electoral battle between the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami. In the 13th parliamentary elections, Mohammad Fakhrul Islam, a prominent businessman from Dhaka, emerged victorious for the BNP by securing 1,47,808 votes, defeating Jamaat’s Maulana Belayet Hossain who garnered 1,20,453 votes.
The absence of Quader and the weakened organizational structure of the Awami League paved the way for a competitive campaign as both Fakhrul and Belayet engaged in vigorous door-to-door canvassing, expressing strong confidence in their chances of victory.
Historically, the Noakhali-5 constituency, comprising Companiganj, Kabirhat, and part of Sadar upazila, was known for the electoral battles between Quader and the late senior BNP leader Barrister Moudud Ahmed. Fakhrul, one of the wealthiest candidates in the district, invested heavily in campaigning and aimed to reclaim the seat, emphasizing the BNP’s historical stronghold in the area.
Following a political shift in August 2024, Quader left the country, creating an opportunity for a free and fair election. Fakhrul anticipated a resounding win with the hope of presenting the seat as a gift to party Chairman Tarique Rahman, aiming to revive the BNP’s influence in the region.
The electoral contest also highlighted Jamaat’s strong presence in the constituency, particularly in Kabirhat and Companiganj, setting the stage for a competitive three-way race. Observers noted a significant wave of support for the Jamaat candidate, challenging Quader’s previous dominance in the area.
BNP leaders credited the revitalization of their old voter base for their victory, signaling the end of Quader’s prolonged rule in the region. The election, held under tight security measures, allowed voters to cast their ballots freely, fostering enthusiasm among the electorate.
The legacy of past leaders like Moudud Ahmed, who had a formidable political influence in the region, continued to shape the electoral dynamics. Harunur Rashid Azad, the district BNP secretary, reiterated the party’s confidence in reclaiming all six seats in Noakhali, with Fakhrul’s victory in Noakhali-5 marking a significant milestone for the BNP’s resurgence in the area.