by Al Mamun
There is widespread discussion and activity within the political arenaregarding the reserved seats for women in the National Parliament of Bangladesh. Various parties are scrutinizing candidates to nominate qualified and experienced female leaders to ensure effective representation of women in Parliament.
Centering on these seats in the Bangladesh National Parliament, internal party lobbying, discussions, and political equations are becoming increasingly clear. Political analysts suggest that experience, organizational skills, and public engagement are the primary
considerations for nominations this time.
According to the Constitution of Bangladesh, nominations are granted to qualified and experienced female leaders for the 50 reserved women’s seats in the National Parliament to strengthen women’s participation and representation. In this context, there is a prevailing opinion in political circles that the prominent lawyer and politician from Bogra, Shahajadi Laila Arjuman Banu, may be considered a formidable contender.
Serving as the Acting President of the Bogra District Mohila Dal, Laila Arjuman Banu has long been associated with the politics of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Through active politics since 1988, she has played a vital role in the party’s organizational activities.
She has served as an advisor to the District BNP, a former Vice-President, and held various other significant positions, which bear testament to her organizational prowess and leadership.
Currently, she is serving as an Additional Public Prosecutor at the Bogra District Court. Her firm stance on establishing the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary has established her as a highly qualified legal expert.
Her public service mindset is reflected in her history of handling political cases without remuneration, participating in legal aid activities, and maintaining an active role in social organizations.
She has played an active role both on the streets and in the legal arena during the caretaker government movement, the movement to restore democracy, various election campaigns, and times of political crisis.
Local residents claim that she has worked following the ideals of Khaleda Zia and Tarek Rahman while carrying out party directives during the country’s democratic movements.
Laila Arjuman Banu hails from a political family. Her father was one of the founding Vice-Presidents of the BNP, and her father-in-law was a former MNA. This family heritage has further enriched her political maturity and experience.
Having earned her law degree from Rajshahi University, Laila Arjuman Banu has been involved in social service for a long time through her associations with social organizations, the Red Crescent, and various professional bodies.
According to political analysts, there are several compelling reasons to consider Laila Arjuman Banu for a reserved women’s seat—such as nearly four decades of political experience, proven skills in party and organizational leadership, expertise in the legal profession, deep knowledge of the judicial system, an active role in democratic movements, experience in developing female leadership, and widespread political and social acceptance.
Considering all aspects, Laila Arjuman Banu stands out as an experienced, tested organizer and a strong candidate for a Member of Parliament in a reserved seat. Those concerned believe that her political experience, legal expertise, and long-standing public engagement will be instrumental in playing an effective role in Parliament.
