Awami League has unveiled the list of nominees for the upcoming 12th national elections, showcasing a strategic approach in candidate selection guided by three key criteria. As preparations for the 12th parliamentary election unfold, the ruling Awami League has meticulously chosen candidates for 298 constituencies, leaving two seats, Kushtia-2 and Narayanganj-5, vacant.
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In alignment with its practice from the past three national elections, the Awami League is opting for a coalition strategy, extending nominations to seats won by its coalition partners in the previous election. The potential for compromise with other political entities will play a pivotal role in shaping the final decisions.
According to the announced list, at least 72 people who were MPs of Awami League in the 11th parliament did not get party nomination this time. Candidates have been evaluated based on their skills, popularity, and educational background within the respective constituencies. Special emphasis is placed on individuals who actively contributed to the party’s efforts during the challenging Covid-19 period, aligning with the party’s vision for building a Smart Bangladesh.
Two Celebrities Nominated
In a surprising turn of events, the globally acclaimed all-rounder cricketer, Shakib Al Hasan, renowned for his prowess in the sports arena, has secured a nomination despite his absence from the political landscape. Recognized as a dynamic leader, Shakib’s popularity among the masses has earned him the nomination for the Magura 1 constituency.
Initially seeking for nominations in Dhaka-10, Magura-1, and Magura-2, Shakib’s plans were reshaped as the Awami League chose to nominate actor Ferdous Ahmed for the Dhaka-10 constituency. Ferdous, celebrated for his debut film ‘Hothat Brishti,’ has garnered immense popularity in both Bangladesh and India through his subsequent roles in various hit films.
Renowned Educationists
The Awami League has nominated Mohammad Ali Arafat for Dhaka-17 constituency. He secured victory in a by-election on July 17. A Bangladeshi academic and political advocate affiliated with the Awami League, Arafat serves as a Professor of Strategic Management and Policy at the Canadian University of Bangladesh, also holding the position of Chairman at the Suchinta Foundation.
Meanwhile, Sunamganj-4 is poised to witness the entry of Mohammad Sadiq, former Chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC). With a distinguished career, Sadiq has held key roles in the Bangladesh Public Service Commission, the Ministry of Public Administration, and the Bangladesh Election Commission Secretariat, showcasing a rich background in public service and administration.
In addition to Mohammad Sadiq, the lineup includes two other former bureaucrats, indicating a diverse array of experiences among the Awami League’s new faces. Among these are, Abdul Kamal Azad, former Chief Secretary, who secured the party’s nomination for Jamalpur-5. Sourendra Nath Chakraborty, a former secretary, emerged as the nominee for the Naogaon-3 constituency.
Chandpur-1 Kachua Constituency sees the nomination of Dr. Salim Mahmud, the Central Awami League Information and Research Secretary. Renowned as an educationist and Dhaka University professor, Dr. Mahmud brings a wealth of knowledge and international recognition as an energy expert, solidifying his standing as a prominent national political figure.
Young Faces To Build Smart Bangladesh
In a visionary move towards a Smart Bangladesh, the Awami League has strategically nominated a cadre of dynamic and skilled young leaders. Marking a significant shift, the party introduces fresh faces for nine out of the 20 constituencies in Dhaka, with six of them being vibrant young talents. Among these emerging leaders are Sayeed Khokon for Dhaka-6, Solaiman Salim for Dhaka-7, Sanjida Khanam for Dhaka-4, Harunur Rashid Munna for Dhaka-5, Ferdous Ahmed for Dhaka-10, and Mainul Hossain Khan Nikhil for Dhaka-14.
Beyond the capital, the Awami League has also propelled new faces onto the national stage. Notable among them are Abdus Sabur (Cumilla-1), Mahbub Rahman Ruhel (Chattogram-1), M. A. Salam (Chattogram-5), S. M. Al Mamun (Chattogram-4), Shammim Hossain (Faridpur-3), Rasheq Rahman (Rangpur-5), Ronjit Sarkar (Sunamganj-1), Abdullah Al Mahmud Chowdhury (Sunamganj-2), Shafiul Islam Chowdhury Nadel (Moulvibazar-2), Khadijatul Anwar (Chittagong-2), Galibur Rahman Sharif (Pabna-4), and AZM Shafiuddin Shamim.
This transformative wave also sees the omission of some incumbent MPs, including former LGRD minister Khandaker Mossharraf Hossain, former home minister Muhiuddin Khan Alamgir, former state minister for information Murad Hasan, former inspector general of police Nur Mohammad, and the respected Old Dhaka figure Haji Mohammad Salim.
Conclusion
the unveiling of Awami League’s nominees for the 12th national elections reflects a strategic and meticulous approach in candidate selection. With a focus on three key criteria—skills, popularity, and educational background—the party has made significant changes, leaving out at least 72 former MPs from the 11th parliament. The coalition strategy, consistent with past elections, introduces an element of potential compromise with other political entities in the final decisions.
