L Hossen, Rajshahi Bureau

Finally, all speculations came to an end and the current mayor Md. Muktar Ali became soaked in the love of the voters. The city council was re-elected on Saturday, January 16, after receiving a large number of votes in the second round of municipal elections. Muktar Ali got 5904 votes for the coconut tree symbol. His nearest rival, Awami League nominee Shahiduzzaman Shahid, received 4300 votes with the boat symbol. "The boat was not my rival," Mayor Muktar told reporters after the election results were announced. My opponent was the individual. I proved it by winning again. I am grateful to my beloved leader Shahriar Alam, a local MP, for coming home from Dhaka and voting. Even after I was not nominated, I am expressing my gratitude to Hon`ble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. My only promise is that as long as I live, I will live by the ideals of Bangabandhu and I will continue to serve the people of the area. Going to the polling stations all day, it was seen that the voters were able to exercise their voting right without any hindrance. Extensive turnout of women voters from 8 a.m. to noon. Voter turnout has been slightly lower since noon. Bagha Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Returning Officer Shahin Reza officially announced the results from the Upazila Hallroom. Also present at the time were Upazila Election Officer Mojibul Alam and other law enforcement officials.