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give my best for the party during its difficult times. Now the time has come for the party to give its best in evaluating us. I only hope the party will think about us.

“I believe, and the BNP also believes, that those who made sacrifices for the party, went to jail, faced cases, and suffered both personally and within their families will get priority. Those who are educated, decent, and have the skill to play a strong role in parliament will also be given importance.”

The BNP has attached importance to former reserved-seat lawmakers from 2001 and 2008, considering their past parliamentary experience and organisational background.

Among senior leaders under discussion are Jatiyatabadi Mohila Dal President Afroza Abbas, wife of BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas, MP, and Mohila Dal General Secretary Sultana Ahmed, who was a reserved seat lawmaker in 2001.

Besides, those under consideration include former 2001 reserved seat lawmakers and BNP leaders Rehana Akter, Bilkis Islam, Rasheda Begum Hira, Newaz Halima Arly, and Helen Zerin Khan. BNP central committee member Shirin Sultana, a former reserved seat lawmaker in 1996, is among the aspirants, along with Dhaka district BNP General Secretary Nipun Roy Chowdhury.

BNP Chairperson’s Adviser and singer Baby Naznin and Mayer Daak coordinator Sanjida Islam Tulee are also being discussed.

Among those from the 2008 reserved seats are BNP Local Government Affairs Assistant Secretary Shammi Akter and BNP Human Rights Affairs Assistant Secretary Syeda Ashifa Ashrafi Papia.

According to BNP insiders, the final selection will depend on political balancing, regional representation, and internal consensus.

Meanwhile, Jamaat women’s wing leaders said they are waiting for the central command’s announcement, which will formally declare the final list of candidates.

Women’s Affairs Secretary Nurunnisa Siddika said, “Earlier, our women’s wing submitted a list of 12 names to the central executive council. The nominations have already been finalised, but we are yet to be informed.

“The candidates included are those who can present their views clearly and who have strong educational qualifications.”