The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has formally nominated Sultan Salahuddin Tuku as its candidate for the Tangail-5 (Sadar Upazila) constituency.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced the names of candidates for 36 constituencies at a press conference held at the party chairperson’s office in Gulshan on Thursday.
He said Tuku, the party’s central publicity secretary, will contest Tangail-5 with the paddy sheaf symbol.
The seat had not appeared in the initial list of 237 constituencies released on 3 November. At the time, the party had said it would declare the nomination separately.
Party sources describe Tuku as a well-known figure within BNP politics. He has previously served as president and general secretary of the central Jubo Dal and Chhatra Dal.
Local leaders say he has long been active in the Tangail Sadar constituency and has maintained regular contact with residents.
They noted that former district member-secretary Mahmudul Haque Sanu, former organisational secretary Shafiqul Islam Khan Shafik and several district- and upazila-level leaders are already working on the ground under his leadership. Tangail-5 comprises the municipality and 12 unions.
BNP activists believe that, following recent political shifts, the chances of reclaiming the seat are stronger this time.
Local leaders said Tuku has been involved in BNP politics since his student years and has developed strong links with the people of Tangail. They cited his contributions to religious institutions, assistance to the underprivileged and involvement in local infrastructure repairs.
Young voters said his engagement in sports, cultural and social activities has earned him their trust, noting that he has already organised various programmes involving youth.
Speaking to Times of Bangladesh after receiving the nomination, Salahuddin Tuku said, “Alhamdulillah. The Zia family has placed its trust in me. I pray for the speedy recovery of Khaleda Zia. We will work in unity to secure victory for the paddy sheaf in Tangail Sadar.”
He urged party activists not to bring out celebratory processions or distribute sweets.
Reaffirming his pledge, he added, “If elected, I will ensure a Tangail Sadar free from extortion and drugs and develop it as a model of progress. If the people place their trust in us, development will be their return.”
