After securing a sweeping victory in the 13th parliamentary election, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leaders are now competing intensely for nominations to the reserved women’s seats. The party is struggling to manage hundreds of aspirants from both central and grassroots levels, including long-time activists, former MPs, and new faces. The Election Commission plans to announce the schedule for these seats between April 7 and 10, following a commission meeting on April 6.

According to party sources, priority is being given to women with long-standing political contributions, roles in past movements, and sacrifices for the party. Consideration is also being extended to families of senior leaders who were killed or injured in political struggles. Former MPs, wives and daughters of senior BNP leaders, and several cultural figures are among those under discussion. Three female candidates who contested but lost in the 13th election are also being considered.

BNP’s nomination board is preparing an initial list that will be shortened before final approval by the party’s chairman, Tarique Rahman. The final decision will be made after the Election Commission announces the official schedule.