Sohel Rana, an independent parliamentary candidate and social worker for Dhaka-13 (Mohammadpur–Adabor–Sher-e-Bangla Nagar), has said that the once-proud constituency has now turned into a city of fear. He vowed to rescue ordinary citizens from the grip of extortion, mugging, and drug abuse, and to replace “business politics” with a genuine “politics of service” by contesting the election with the ‘Pitcher’ (Kolosh) symbol.

He made the remarks on Wednesday (January 21) while unveiling his election manifesto at a press conference. On the occasion, he expressed his gratitude to the people of Dhaka-13 for their continued support.

Speaking to journalists, Sohel Rana said, “I am contesting this election as an independent candidate, outside the traditional political circles and muscle power. For the past decade, I have worked with street children and underprivileged communities. From this experience, I have realized that solving society’s core problems requires active participation in the national parliament.”

Highlighting the deteriorating situation in the area, he said, “Mohammadpur, Adabor, and Sher-e-Bangla Nagar were once symbols of heritage and pride. Today, public safety here is in a critical state. The constituency is plagued by waterlogging, severe traffic congestion, and misgovernance. If elected, my priorities will be creating jobs for the youth, building a modern and livable city, and ensuring the safety of women.”

Urging voters to support his campaign, he added, “The Pitcher is not just an election symbol; it stands for humane politics. I am not asking for votes for power, but to transform Dhaka-13 into a safe and developed constituency. As a son of this soil, I seek your prayers and support.”

Representatives from print and electronic media were present at the press conference.

Expressing optimism, Sohel Rana said that if voters can cast their ballots without fear, it would mark the beginning of real change in Dhaka-13.

Widely known as a “Friend of Street Children” for his long-standing work with underprivileged children, Sohel Rana said that if elected, his top priorities would include ensuring proper child development and quality education, safeguarding mental and physical health, protecting citizens’ rights, ensuring administrative accountability, and generating employment to build a crime-free and secure Dhaka-13.

Reaffirming his pledge for change, the independent candidate said,
“I am Sohel Rana, your own son. If you give me the opportunity to be your voice in Parliament, I will uphold everyone’s rightful entitlements, dignity, and justice, Insha’Allah.”