MAMUNUR RASHID

Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis and Khelafat Majlis are moving to expand their reach among female voters and have already begun work to set up party-backed, independent platforms for women and female students.

Leaders of the Islamist parties say the initiatives aim to strengthen bases among female students, spread Islamic value-based political messaging, and develop women leaders.

According to political observers, the move reflects a restructuring of Islamist parties, influenced by the importance of female voters and rising political awareness among young women.

In the 13th parliamentary election, Jamaat-e-Islami successfully mobilised its central, associate and professional wings; women’s division; and party-affiliated student organisation. Analysts said the outreach helped increase Jamaat’s visibility among female voters and students.

Islami Andolan contested the election under the “hand fan” symbol. The party was initially part of a Jamaat-led 11-party alliance but withdrew before the polls. It secured 2.70 percent of the vote and won one seat.

Founded in 1987 under Charmonai Pir, Islami Andolan did not have a formal women’s wing for a long time. The party formed a 34-member women’s unit on International Women’s Day last year.

On the proposed female student He said

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