From Ward Councillor to Cabinet: Ariful Haque’s Ascent

In a political journey spanning over two decades, Ariful Haque Chowdhury has transitioned from a grassroots local representative to a key figure in the national government. Following his resounding victory in the 13th General Election, the former Mayor of Sylhet has been sworn in as a full Minister, specifically taking the helm of the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment.

A Historic Landslide Victory

Contesting from the Sylhet-4 constituency under the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ (Dhaner Sheesh) symbol, Ariful Haque Chowdhury secured a mandate that underscored his immense popularity in the region. Despite entering the parliamentary race at the eleventh hour following a strategic directive from the party leadership, he managed to decimate his competition.

The Path from Grassroots to Governance

Ariful’s rise is a testament to political endurance. His career began in 2003 when he was elected as a Ward Councillor for Ward No. 18 in Sylhet City. During this formative period, he served as the Chairman of the Urban Development and Planning Committee, earning the mentorship of the late Finance Minister M. Saifur Rahman.

His profile rose significantly in 2013 when he achieved what many thought impossible: defeating the legendary incumbent Badar Uddin Ahmed Kamran to become the Mayor of Sylhet. He repeated this feat in the subsequent election, serving two consecutive terms and transforming the city’s infrastructure. Although he stepped aside from the 2023 mayoral race to honour party decisions, his influence in the Sylhet division remained unchallenged.

Key Milestones in Ariful Haque’s Career

1979: Commenced political life with the founding of the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal.

2003: Elected as a Ward Councillor (Ward 18), beginning his stint in local government.

2013 & 2018: Elected as the Mayor of Sylhet City Corporation (SCC) for two consecutive terms.

2025: Returned to the parliamentary fold at the personal request of the party high command.

2026: Appointed as the Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment.

A Strategic Cabinet Appointment

Born on 23 November 1959, Ariful Haque Chowdhury brings a wealth of administrative experience to the Cabinet. His appointment to the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare is seen as a strategic move, given that the Sylhet region is home to one of the largest expatriate communities globally.

Upon his appointment, the newly minted Minister expressed his profound gratitude to the party Chairman, Tarique Rahman, and the voters of Sylhet-4. He pledged to revitalise the overseas employment sector, focusing on the welfare of the millions of Bangladeshis working abroad who are vital to the nation’s remittance flow.