Barrister Farzana Sharmin Putul, daughter of late BNP leader Fazlur Rahman Potol, has been appointed state minister for the Ministry of Social Welfare, the same position once held by her father 33 years ago. She also received the additional charge of state minister for the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs. Putul, elected from Natore-1 (Lalpur-Bagatipara) as the only female BNP candidate in Rajshahi division during the 13th National Election, took oath on February 17 and began her first day at the Secretariat on February 18.

Her appointment marks a symbolic return to the same office where her father once served. Fazlur Rahman Potol, a four-time MP and former state minister in multiple BNP governments, was widely respected in his constituency. Putul, a 41-year-old barrister educated in Dhaka and London, overcame internal party competition to secure her nomination and won by about 12,000 votes.

Following her appointment, residents of Natore-1 celebrated the news, expressing optimism that she will continue her father’s legacy of development and leadership in the region.