JHALOKATHI, Feb 21 (V7N) – Political activities surrounding the reserved women’s seats have intensified following the 13th National Parliament election, with former student leader Mumtaz Begum Nayan expressing interest in becoming a Member of Parliament from a reserved women’s seat in Jhalakathi.

According to party sources, she is seeking nomination from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by Tarique Rahman. Mumtaz Begum Nayan said she is prepared to play an effective role in parliament, particularly on issues related to women and children’s rights, education and the development of the southern region if given the opportunity.

Highlighting her long-standing involvement in party politics, she stated that she is ready to fulfill the responsibility sincerely if the party places its trust in her.

Under the constitutional provision, 50 seats in the Jatiya Sangsad are reserved for women, and the Election Commission completes the election to these seats within 90 days after the publication of the gazette of the general election results. The reserved women MPs are elected through votes of the newly elected members of parliament.

Meanwhile, several women leaders in Jhalakathi district are actively lobbying for party nomination for the reserved seats, while discussions and internal consultations within the party are ongoing. The final decision, however, will be taken by the party’s central leadership.

Mumtaz Begum Nayan reiterated her commitment to the party’s ideology and said she wants to contribute to women’s empowerment and the development of the southern region, adding that she will accept whatever decision the party leadership takes.

She is also known as a social worker and has been involved in various development-related initiatives in the southern region over the years.

END/AIJ/RH