Election Countdown Begins In What Will Be History In The Making

By Charles Sercombe

Hamtramck’s Nov. 3 General Election is just two weeks away.

This year’s election promises to be a roller-coaster ride and one of the most pivotal elections in recent memory. The August Primary Election was a stunner for those who follow local politics.

Why is that?

It appears the Bangladesh community is no longer a silent minority in town. Bangladeshi-Americans came out in droves and pushed the three Bangladeshi council candidates to the top. In other words, the Bangladeshi voting bloc is now a powerful force to reckon with.

There are three seats on council up for grabs. Only one candidate, Alan Shulgon, is an incumbent. And Shulgon’s chance of winning re-election is anyone’s guess. He finished a distant fifth place in the primary election.

The top vote-getter in the primary was newcomer Kazi Miah. He was followed by Mohammed Hassan and Anam Miah (no relation to Kazi Miah).

But just because the three top vote-getters finished above the other contenders, that doesn’t guarantee how things will turn out on Nov. 3. Like in any other Hamtramck General Election, this race is a different election from August.

But no matter, it will still be one for the history books.

The mayoral election is just as nail-biting. Mayor Karen Majewski is seeking her second term but is facing a stiff challenge from current Councilmember Abdul Algazali. Algazali was once a fringe player in local politics, but not anymore. He came within striking distance in the August primary.

There is no telling how this race will end up.

Voters will also decide who to select for two seats on the School Board. Incumbents Hedy Shulgon and Betty Zwolak are facing challengers Roberta Olko and Carol Pinckney.

To help anyone still riding the fence in any of the races, the Hamtramck Block Club Association is holding another “Meet the Candidates Night” next Thursday, Oct.22 at People’s Community Center, at Jos. Campau and Danforth.

The event starts with a social hour at 6 p.m. and moves to a debate format at 7 p.m.