SUSHANTA GHOSH, Barishal

From local markets to village haats and riverside communities, Habiba Kibria has been carrying a single appeal to voters in Barishal -- “Your one vote can bring my father back to you.”

Habiba, the daughter of Jatiya Party presidium member and Barishal-3 (Babuganj-Muladi) candidate Golam Kibria Tipu, has been campaigning on his behalf as he remains in jail for more than 14 months in connection with multiple cases.

On Thursday, around 1:00pm, she was seen campaigning on foot at the market of Rautakathi union in Babuganj upazila. Accompanied by seven to eight local party activists, she moved slowly through the market, stopping to speak with small traders and shoppers, seeking their prayers and votes for the plough symbol.

In Tipu’s absence, Habiba has taken to the field, appealing to voters on both political and personal grounds.

“From morning, I go from local market to haat, from house to house -- not just to reach homes, but to reach people’s hearts,” Habiba said. “I convey my father’s salam and ask them to help by voting for the plough.”

Referring to her father’s political career, Habiba said he had been elected MP three times and worked for the development of the area. “During his time, no one was harassed. But after August 5, people have faced extortion and harassment, and they are living in fear,” she claimed.

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