In a landmark outcome from Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary elections held on Thursday, seven women candidates have secured victories, spotlighting the pivotal role of female participation in politics. With counting completed for 284 seats, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its allies have clinched 208, positioning them to form the next government with a clear majority.
Women’s involvement emerged as a central theme this election cycle. Despite a stark underrepresentation—far fewer female candidates compared to men—the resilience of these women shone through. BNP’s six victorious women include Afroza Khan Rita from Manikganj-3, Israt Sultana Ellen Bhutto from Jhalokati-2, Tahmina Rushdir Luna from Sylhet-2, Shama Obaid from Faridpur-2, Nayab Yusuf Kamal from Faridpur-3, and Farzana Shermin Putul from Natore-1. Independent candidate Barrister Rumin Farhana triumphed in Brahmanbaria-2, despite her prior expulsion from BNP.
Campaign trails were fraught with challenges for these trailblazers. They faced character assassination, cyber attacks, and threats, yet persisted. BNP’s firm stance—that national progress hinges on women’s development—resonated with voters.
The controversy ignited by Jamaat-e-Islami’s remarks further fueled discourse. Party chief Shafiqur Rahman posted on social media claiming women’s public roles lead to exploitation and moral decay, equating it to prostitution. The post went viral before deletion amid backlash, with the party citing a hack. Critics slammed it for regressive views undermining women’s rights to education, work, and leadership.
Bangladesh’s political legacy underscores women’s power. Late BNP leader Khaleda Zia and former PM Sheikh Hasina have shaped the nation’s economy and governance for decades. Voters rejected Jamaat’s narrative, affirming women’s indispensable role. As BNP gears up to govern, these wins signal a brighter future for gender equality in Bangladeshi politics.