BNP list sparks controversy over nomination of Awami League leader

A political controversy has emerged after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) included an Awami League grassroots-level leader in its list of nominees for a reserved women’s seat in 13th Parliament, triggering debate on social media and within political circles.

The nominee, Suborna Thakur, serves as the Secretary for Forest and Environment Affairs in Gopalganj’s Kashiani Upazila unit of the Awami League. She is also associated with the indigenous Matua community and belongs to the Harichand Thakur family. In addition to her political involvement, she works as a teacher.

According to local Awami League sources in Kashiani, the upazila committee was restructured following a triannual council held on 30 November 2022, with the new committee officially announced on 1 January 2023. Suborna’s inclusion in BNP’s list of 35 candidates for reserved women’s seats on Monday has since drawn widespread attention and criticism online.

Following the announcement, social media platforms saw heated discussions questioning her political affiliation and eligibility.

In response, Suborna told journalists that she had not actively participated in Awami League politics and claimed her name was included in the party committee without her consent.

She further stated that she had not been politically engaged with the Awami League.

However, her claim has been challenged by circulating photographs showing her attending Awami League programmes and events, which critics argue indicate her active involvement in the party’s activities.

A senior Awami League leader from Gopalganj District, speaking on condition of anonymity, alleged that Suborna had been part of the Kashiani Upazila committee and is now denying her affiliation. The leader accused her of distancing herself from the party to secure a new political position and status.

The issue has added a new layer of tension to the already closely watched selection process for reserved women’s seats in Parliament, with questions being raised about vetting procedures and cross-party nominations.