Momtaz and Zeba in Spotlight for Jhalakathi’s Reserved Seats

The Election Commission (EC) has announced the schedule for the reserved women’s seats in the 13th National Parliament, with voting set for May 12.

Since independence in 1971, Jhalakathi has never had a representative elected to a reserved women's seat. However, two prominent local figures have now emerged as strong contenders within the Barishal regional political circle.

Momtaz Begum Nayan A dedicated leader from Rajapur, Momtaz Begum Nayan rose through the ranks of Chhatra Dal. Known for her loyalty to the high command, she was highly regarded by the late former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

During her time in the student wing, Momtaz was a frontline activist in Dhaka, frequently facing police action and political litigation. Beyond party lines, she was a vocal advocate for regional development, playing an active role in movements for the Barishal Division, University, Education Board, and Airport. She also served on the steering committee of the "Padma Setu Maway Chai" movement.

Zeba Amina Al Gazi Also in contention is Zeba Amina Al Gazi, Vice President of the Central Women's Party and a member of the District BNP convening committee. Zeba carries a strong political lineage as the daughter of the late Barrister Akhter Uddin Ahmed.

In the 12th National Parliament election, she contested the Jhalakathi-2 seat but was unsuccessful. Professionally, she held several leadership roles within the Janata Bank Nationalist Officers Welfare Association and the Nationalist Professional Council.

Local residents are hopeful that the party will prioritize "sacrifice and loyalty" this time. Many point to Momtaz’s history of prioritizing party work over her professional stability during the previous administration as a key reason for her potential selection.

According to the EC Senior Secretary, the 50 reserved seats are distributed based on parliamentary strength BNP and Alliance: 36 seats, Jamaat-e-Islami and Alliance: 13 seats, Independent Candidates: 1 seat

The official gazette for the general election results was published on February 13, and the EC is mandated to complete the reserved seat process within 90 days.