NCP Likely to Get One More Reserved Women’s Seat; Two Leaders in Contention

The opposition alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami is set to receive 13 reserved seats for women in the Jatiya Sangsad. According to the ratio of seats, the alliance’s partner, the National Citizen Party (NCP), is entitled to one seat. However, discussions are now underway to allocate one additional seat to the NCP.

A meeting on this issue was held on Monday (6 April). Jamaat-e-Islami has responded positively to the proposal, though leaders of the alliance are examining whether there are any legal complications.

A responsible source from the NCP told The Daily Campus that the party is entitled to one seat based on the proportion of MPs. However, they had requested two seats from Jamaat-e-Islami. No final decision has been communicated yet. Both parties are reviewing the legal aspects of the matter.

The source further said that NCP’s Joint Convener and Convener of the National Women’s Power, Monira Sharmin, is almost finalized for one seat. If an extra seat is allocated, Joint Member Secretary Dr. Mahmuda Alam Mitu may be nominated for it.

Related sources noted that the opposition alliance is not entirely certain whether a party with fewer MPs can be given an extra reserved seat. If it is not legally possible, there is also discussion about nominating the candidate under Jamaat-e-Islami’s banner.

A senior NCP leader said, “We have been requesting two seats from Jamaat since the beginning. A meeting was also held on Monday. However, Jamaat has not yet said yes or no. We are also reviewing if there are any legal issues involved.”

The election for the 50 reserved women’s seats is scheduled for 12 May. The schedule is expected to be announced today, Tuesday (8 April). Jamaat-e-Islami has already finalized its list of female candidates and will announce the names soon, said its Assistant Secretary General and head of the Publicity and Media Department, Ehsanul Mahbub Jobayer.