Election Campaign Through Sign Language as 300 Deaf Voters from Chattogram Prepare to Vote

At first glance, it might look like a social gathering. But the conversation is taking place through hand signals and gestures. Some are candidates, others are voters. There are no spoken words, yet election campaigning is underway through sign language.

The scene unfolded at an exchange meeting in Chattogram ahead of the executive committee election of the Bangladesh National Association of the Deaf. Candidates met voters from Chattogram ahead of the election, scheduled to take place in Dhaka on October 31.

The meeting was held on Wednesday night, October 21, at the temporary office of Chattogram Deaf Association in the city’s Kazir Dewri area.

Syed Abul Hasnat Raja, former secretary of Chattogram Deaf Association, chaired the meeting. The organisation’s general secretary, Syed Golam Mostafa, delivered the welcome address.

During the meeting, candidates sought votes in favour of their respective election symbols. Addressing voters, they said deaf people are often viewed differently in society and stressed the need for unity to establish their rights.

Sidratul Muntaha is contesting for the post of general secretary with the mango symbol. Vice-president candidate Mohammad Sazzad Hossain’s symbol is a jug. Other candidates contesting various posts also sought votes from the attendees.

According to Chattogram Deaf Association, the election of the Bangladesh National Association of the Deaf is being held after three years. Voters from 36 districts across the country will participate. Members of the Chattogram association are preparing to travel to Dhaka by bus for the election. Around 300 members of the organisation are expected to cast their votes.