Father and Son Contest the Same Constituency in Noakhali-6

An unusual and much-discussed political contest is unfolding in Noakhali-6 (Hatiya), where a father and his son have entered the electoral race from the same constituency—albeit under the banners of different political parties. Abdul Hannan Masud, Senior Joint Chief Coordinator of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP), and his father, Amirul Islam Mohammad Abdul Malek, have both formally submitted their nomination papers to contest the upcoming election, turning the spotlight firmly on this coastal constituency.

The nomination papers were submitted on Monday evening (29 December) to the District Returning Officer and District Commissioner, Muhammad Shafiqul Islam. The joint appearance of father and son at the nomination submission ceremony immediately drew attention, symbolising not only a family moment but also a rare political development in Bangladesh’s electoral landscape.

In the race ahead, Abdul Hannan Masud will contest under the NCP banner with the Shapla Kali (lotus bud) symbol, representing a newer political force and a younger generation of leadership. His father, Amirul Islam Mohammad Abdul Malek, is standing as a candidate of the Bangladesh Supreme Party (BSP), using the Ektara (one-stringed instrument) symbol, which many associate with tradition and experience.

News of a father and son competing from the same seat has sparked widespread discussion and debate among local residents. For some voters, the contest represents a symbolic face-off between youth and experience—between political idealism and seasoned pragmatism. Others see it as a calculated political strategy that could influence vote distribution and reshape the balance of power in the constituency. Political observers note that such a configuration is rare and has the potential to make the election more dynamic, competitive, and unpredictable.

Speaking about the matter, Abdul Hannan Masud described his own political journey as deeply rooted in Bangladesh’s anti-authoritarian movements. He acknowledged, however, that electoral politics is new territory for him. Despite being a registered voter, he revealed that he has never had the opportunity to cast a vote in either a national or local election. “This election will be my first direct experience of electoral politics,” he said.

He also spoke respectfully of his father, noting that among the total 13 candidates contesting in Noakhali-6, Amirul Islam Mohammad Abdul Malek stands out as a senior and experienced figure. “I personally encouraged my father to submit his nomination,” Hannan Masud explained. “This will be a learning experience for me as well. I welcome his participation wholeheartedly and hope to gain insight from his experience in the field.”

Political analysts believe this father–son contest goes beyond personal ambition. It reflects broader questions about generational transition, political diversity within families, and the evolving nature of democratic participation in Bangladesh. As campaigning begins, voters in Hatiya will be watching closely to see how this unique rivalry unfolds—and which vision ultimately resonates more strongly at the ballot box.

Candidates at a Glance :

With both experience and youthful ambition on display, the Noakhali-6 contest promises to be one of the most intriguing electoral battles of the season.