Jhalokathi, Nov 01 (V7N) — Jhalokathi, a district renowned for its heritage of Islamic scholarship, spiritual traditions, and devout citizens, has long been considered a bastion of nationalist ideology. Historically, it has leaned toward the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in fair post-independence elections. Following the fall of the authoritarian Hasina regime through the July 2024 mass uprising, citizens across Bangladesh have renewed hopes for democracy and the restoration of voting rights ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election.

In both Jhalokathi constituencies, three prominent BNP women leaders have entered the nomination race alongside male contenders, reflecting the party’s commitment to nationalist and democratic ideals.

From Jhalokathi-2 (Sadar–Nalchity), former lawmaker and ex-General Secretary of the district BNP Israt Sultana Ellen Bhutto seeks nomination under the BNP’s Dhaner Shish (Sheaf of Paddy) symbol. A dedicated grassroots organizer and current member of the district BNP convening committee, Ellen Bhutto has been engaging with voters through door-to-door campaigns, leaflet distribution promoting Tarique Rahman’s 31-point reform agenda, and frequent meetings to strengthen public support.

Also contesting from the same seat is Ziba Amina Al Gazi, Central Vice President of the BNP Women’s Wing and a member of the Jhalokathi district convening committee. She has been holding rallies, seminars, and direct voter outreach campaigns urging support for the Dhaner Shish (Sheaf of Paddy). A former nominee in the previous national election, Ziba Amina endured violent attacks allegedly by ruling party activists but continued her campaign undeterred.

Daughter of the late Barrister Akhtar Uddin Ahmed, a respected political figure, Ziba Amina is widely recognized for her loyalty to BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. She has accompanied Khaleda Zia on international tours and earned a reputation as a devoted and courageous party leader.

In Jhalokathi-1 (Rajapur–Kathalia), former student leader Momtaz Begum Nayon has also entered the race. An accomplished, educated woman and former central office officer at Janata Bank, she has received over a hundred national and international awards for her contributions to social welfare. Nayon has been distributing the BNP’s 31-point reform leaflets, promoting the Dhaner Shish (Sheaf of Paddy), and running a poster campaign invoking the spirit of November 7, which has generated significant discussion in local political circles.

Political analysts view the rise of these BNP women leaders as a meaningful shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape. They note that increasing female participation could play a decisive role in shaping the country’s future, particularly as Bangladesh aims to ensure at least 30% female representation in parliament.

Their active presence in the upcoming polls symbolizes the BNP’s broader effort to restore democracy, promote gender inclusion, and empower citizens in a post-autocratic Bangladesh.

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