Disappointment and frustration have surfaced among BNP leaders, activists and local residents following the nomination of an alliance candidate perceived as largely disconnected from the electorate in the Narayanganj-4 constituency. According to local opinions, nearly 70 percent of voters are unfamiliar with the nominee, having only heard his name without ever seeing him actively engaged in the area.
As Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) prepares for the 13th National Parliamentary Election, questions have arisen over the criteria used in the candidate selection process. Narayanganj-4, widely regarded as a BNP stronghold and a politically significant constituency, has become the center of criticism, with allegations that political merit was overlooked, thereby ignoring the wishes, aspirations and expectations of party leaders, workers and the general public.
At the local level, dissatisfaction is evident regarding the process followed in considering candidates for BNP’s nomination in Narayanganj-4. According to the latest information, at least four heavyweight contenders actively lobbied for the party symbol. Among them, after evaluating overall political standing and consulting people from various professional and social backgrounds, Mohammad Shah Alam emerged as one of the most deserving candidates.
An analysis of his extensive grassroots outreach, public meetings and opinion-sharing programs ahead of the election indicates that he enjoyed greater popularity compared to other aspirants. Known for his clean image and worker-friendly leadership, Shah Alam is widely accepted across different segments of society. His programs consistently drew spontaneous participation from respected community figures, senior citizens and youth, with lively attendance observed from beginning to end of rallies and meetings.
Another prominent figure considered on merit is Bir Muktijoddha Commander Mohammad Ali, a nationally recognized personality with strong networks in Narayanganj’s social, voluntary, professional and political circles. However, controversies surrounding his role during the 1/11 political episode, along with allegations of closeness to the ruling Awami League—particularly the Osman family—have drawn criticism. Local observers believe that in the absence of these controversies, he would have been regarded as one of the strongest heavyweight candidates in the constituency.
Former BNP Member of Parliament and Bir Muktijoddha Giasuddin stands third in consideration. Had his home area Siddhirganj not been separated from the Narayanganj-4 constituency, he could have emerged as a key contender. Although his popularity and acceptance in the Fatullah area lag behind that of Mohammad Shah Alam and Mohammad Ali, his long political experience and organizational wisdom make him difficult to disregard entirely.
However, allegations have been raised that when such realities and qualifications are ignored and a socially detached candidate is nominated by a major party like BNP, the hopes and aspirations of the people are effectively stifled.
Political analysts and local residents across different social strata claim that the proposed alliance candidate, Monir Hossain Kasemi of Jamiat-e-Ulama-e-Islam, is largely unknown to nearly 70 percent of voters in the constituency. Many are unaware of where he resides, and critics allege that he lacks a visible support base, grassroots activists or a solid vote bank. As a result, concerned quarters fear that nominating such a candidate in a BNP stronghold like Narayanganj-4 will marginalize local voters and undermine their political rights.
