Three Bangladeshi-Origin Candidates Running in Elections Across Three U.S. Cities

Three candidates are seeking to increase representation in local American politics by running for city council seats in three California cities. Sajia Haque, Mohammad Rahman, and M. S. Alam are campaigning to win seats in their respective cities in the upcoming elections. Reports by Prothom Alo and Bangla Bulletin have identified them as Bangladeshi Americans.

Their candidacies are also reflected in the respective cities’ official election information. However, official records generally confirm candidate registration and electoral districts, and do not necessarily document candidates’ ethnic or family backgrounds.

Sajia Haque is running in District 1 in Montebello, Los Angeles County. Her name appears on the list of candidates published on the city’s official website. Her opponents in the district include Georgina Tamayo, Kimberly Cobos Cathorne, and Rafael Santoya. In comments to Prothom Alo, Haque emphasized the importance of increasing Bangladeshi American participation in mainstream politics. Her campaign priorities include transparency and accountability in city government, responsible budget management, safer neighborhoods, and support for local businesses.

Mohammad Rahman is contesting the District 1 seat in Perris, Riverside County. His name is listed on the city’s official election webpage. According to Prothom Alo, Rahman worked for the United States Postal Service for many years. His campaign focuses on affordable housing, public safety, the growth of small businesses, and expanding opportunities for young people.

Meanwhile, M. S. Alam is running in District 3 in Chino, San Bernardino County. His candidacy is listed on the city’s official election webpage. Media reports indicate that he is competing against incumbent City Councilmember Mark Lucio. Alam’s campaign priorities include planned urban development, improved transportation, stronger infrastructure, and better municipal services.

Members of the local Bangladeshi American community are reportedly supporting the candidates’ campaigns. Some are providing financial assistance, others are participating in fundraising, while some are volunteering their time to help with campaign activities. However, independently verified figures regarding the amount of financial support or the number of supporters were not available.

City councils play an important role in addressing issues that directly affect residents’ daily lives in the United States. Their responsibilities include municipal budgets, roads and infrastructure, housing, public safety, local businesses, and various public services. Greater representation of immigrants and diverse ethnic communities in local elections can therefore provide an opportunity to bring community concerns and priorities into local decision-making.

The election results for the three candidates have not yet been announced. Their victories or defeats will be determined by the official results released by the relevant election authorities following the November 3 vote. Although media reports identify all three candidates as being of Bangladeshi origin, their backgrounds should not be presented as independently confirmed by official government records in every case.