Sylhet's BNP candidates in 19 constituency?

June 19, 2025 12:02 AM
BNP's Sylhet Election Chessboard: Alliances, Surprises, and Independent Threats

With the next general election on the horizon, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is reportedly engaged in an extensive and intricate field survey across the Sylhet Division, meticulously mapping out its candidate selections for 19 crucial constituencies. Internal assessments suggest a highly fluid electoral landscape, characterized by potential strategic alliances, unexpected candidate choices, and a pragmatic approach to the evolving political climate.Sylheti leaders are making efforts in London to secure nominations. They are trying to meet the party's acting chairman.

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Sources within the BNP indicate that should the party forge an alliance with like-minded political entities, it is prepared to strategically allocate the iconic 'sheaf of paddy' electoral symbol to certain non-BNP figures. Prominently mentioned are Reza Kibria for Habiganj-1, contingent on his health, and Nawab Ali Abbas, a seasoned three-time former MP, for Moulvibazar-2. These potential nominations underscore the party's willingness to leverage broader political coalitions. Furthermore, there are whispers that the party intends to honor long-standing commitments made by its stalwarts, Begum Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman, in a handful of constituencies, hinting at continuity amidst change.

Adding another layer of complexity, an internal public opinion survey conducted for the BNP suggests a significant shift in voter sentiment. If the current political environment persists, at least four constituencies within the Sylhet Division, including Sunamganj-3, could see popular local figures, reminiscent of former Awami League minister M.A. Mannan, successfully contesting as independent candidates. This suggests a recognition by the BNP of strong local personalities who might draw votes regardless of party affiliation.

Key Contenders Emerge Across Divisions:

The survey provides a detailed glimpse into the party's thinking for various seats:

Sylhet-1: Khondkar Abdul Muktadir and Ariful Haque Chowdhury are under consideration.

Sylhet-2: Tahsina Rushdi Luna, wife of missing BNP leader Ilias Ali, is viewed as the most likely candidate, though Humayun Kabir is also a potential contender, with a reserved seat promised to Luna if Kabir is nominated.

Sylhet-3: While UK BNP leaders M.A. Salam and M.A. Malek are in the mix, the party might pull a surprise candidate here.

Sylhet-4: Enamul Haque Chowdhury's name is being weighed against several "outsider" candidates, a historical BNP strategy for this constituency.

 Sylhet-5: Mamunur Rashid is on the preliminary list.

Sylhet-6: In a surprising move, the party might opt for a daughter of late BNP leaders Komor Uddin or Mokbul Hossain Chowdhury among six male aspirants. Finalization might coincide with the formation of the UK BNP committee.

Sunamganj-1: Anisul Haque and Kamruzzaman Kamrul are being considered.

Sunamganj-2: Syed Miftah Uddin Rumi and Tahir Raihan Pavel are potential candidates.

Sunamganj-3: Kaysar M. Ahmed is listed, but if a coalition election takes place, Jamiat may seek this seat from the BNP.

Sunamganj-4: Dewan Zainul Zaakerin and Nurul Islam are in contention.

Sunamganj-5: Kalim Uddin Milan and Mizanur Rahman Chowdhury are under consideration, with Milan potentially nominated elsewhere.

Moulvibazar-1: Nasir Uddin Ahmed and Shariful Haque Saju are potential candidates.

Moulvibazar-2: Nawab Ali Abbas Khan and Advocate Abed Raja are being considered.

Moulvibazar-3: Naser Rahman is on the current list.

Moulvibazar-4: Haji Mujibur Rahman's name is listed.

Habiganj-1: Sheikh Sujat Mia and Reza Kibria are potential candidates, alongside one expatriate candidate.

Habiganj-2: Shakhawat Hossain Jibon and Ahmad Ali Muqib are in consideration.

Habiganj-3: G.K. Gaus is listed.

Habiganj-4: Shammi Akter and Syed Mohammad Faisal are among the potential candidates.

In a pragmatic shift, the BNP may refrain from expelling independent candidates not holding direct party positions, aiming to foster a more competitive electoral environment. The party also reserves the right to change candidates in one or two constituencies closer to the election, adapting to evolving political dynamics and opponent strategies. Furthermore, the BNP is reportedly prepared to concede several seats should a dramatic, last-minute alliance with Jamaat materialize. This intricate dance of strategy and adaptability highlights the BNP's determination to maximize its electoral pro spects in the upcoming polls.