BNP Leading Candidates for Reserved Seats

Following the victory in the 13th National Parliamentary elections, political activity surrounding the allocation of reserved women’s seats has intensified. According to party sources, based on the results of the general seats, the BNP-led alliance is expected to secure 37 out of 50 reserved women’s seats. The Election Commission plans to complete this election within the month of Ramadan.

Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud stated, “We aim to conclude the reserved women’s seat election before Eid. As per the Constitution, this election must be completed within 90 days of the gazette notification of the general election results.”

Election Background

In the elections held on 12 February, the BNP-led alliance won 212 seats. Additionally, candidates from the alliance are leading in two more constituencies. Seven independents, who were formerly BNP leaders, also won outside the party’s direct endorsement. Based on these results, the party now has the potential to nominate candidates for 37 reserved women’s seats.

Senior party leaders have confirmed that nominations will be given according to the Election Commission’s schedule. The selection process will prioritise experience, political dedication, and past contributions. Similar to the 13th parliamentary elections, the party intends to maintain a balance between seasoned leaders and new faces in the nominations.

Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, BNP standing committee member and Minister for Power and Energy, said, “The political sacrifice, experience, and contributions of the leaders will guide our decisions. As before, we will ensure a mix of veteran and emerging leaders.”

Potential Nominees

Over a hundred BNP and affiliated organisation leaders have expressed interest in the 37 reserved seats. Many are currently in Dhaka, maintaining direct contact with senior party leaders. Both previously unsuccessful or overlooked candidates and young leaders are in contention. The final list will be decided by the party high command.

Key frontrunners include:

Other prominent potential nominees include central leaders Shirin Sultana, Sultana Ahmed, Najmun Nahar Bebi, former MP Shammi Akter, Nilofar Chowdhury Moni, Asifa Ashrafi Papia, Rasheda Begum Hira, Rehena Akter Ranu, Yasmin Ara Haque, Jahan Panna, Bilkis Islam, and Farida Yasmin. Cultural and professional figures such as singers Baby Naznin, Rizia Parvin, Konok Chapa, and journalist Shahnaz Poli are also under consideration. Additionally, Hasna Jasimuddin Maudud, widow of late Standing Committee member Barrister Maudud Ahmed, is on the list.

The younger generation of leaders being considered include Shahana Akter Sanu, Niyaz Halima Arli, Rabeya Alam, Jeba Amin Khan, Shahinur Nargis, Tanjin Chowdhury Lily, Nadia Pathan Papon, Shaukat Ara Urmi, Selina Sultana Nishita, Shahinur Sagar, Dr. Sansila Jebrin Priyanka, Arifa Sultana Ruma, Samira Tanjina Chowdhury, and Syeda Adiba Hossain.

Many of these potential nominees are currently in Dhaka, maintaining communication with senior leaders. Some have previously contested in parliamentary elections or were overlooked for nominations. Ultimately, the final candidate list will be determined under the leadership of BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

This process ensures that the reserved women’s seats not only strengthen political representation but also balance experience with emerging talent, reflecting the party’s ongoing commitment to both veteran and younger leaders.