NN Online:
BNP is projected to secure the highest share of votes—39%—in the upcoming 13th parliamentary election, according to a survey conducted by the South Asian Network on Economic Modeling (SANEM). The survey also indicates that Jamaat-e-Islami will garner 21% and the National Citizen Party (NCP) 16%.
SANEM, a non-profit research organization, released the report on Monday based on the opinions of 2,000 respondents aged between 15 and 35 years. Participants were selected from all eight divisions of the country, with an even distribution between urban and rural areas. The educational background of respondents was also diverse—40% had education below SSC level, while 60% had SSC or higher.
The findings place BNP in the lead, followed by Jamaat in second and the newly formed NCP in third. The Jatiya Party is expected to receive 3.77% of the votes, while other religious parties are predicted to secure around 4.59%.
The ruling Awami League, if allowed to contest, is projected to get 15.02% of the votes, the survey notes.
The report comes at a critical time, as the national election is expected to be held in mid-February, just ahead of Ramadan, based on an understanding between the government and BNP. Meanwhile, Jamaat and NCP are reportedly seeking to delay the polls, citing the ongoing legal proceedings against those involved in the July mass unrest.
SANEM’s findings highlight the political preferences of the youth, a key demographic that could significantly influence the outcome of the next general election.
