Jhalokati-2 BNP candidate pledges river erosion prevention, drug-free society
In an exclusive interview with Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), she shared her vision for the constituency and her party's stance on key national issues.
BNP candidate for Jhalokati-2 (Jhalokati Sadar and Nalchity) in the upcoming 13th national election Israt Sultana Elen Bhutto has pledged to prioritise prevention of river erosion and creation of a drug-free society.
In an exclusive interview with Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), she shared her vision for the constituency and her party's stance on key national issues.
What are your election promises for the voters of your constituency?
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Elen Bhutto: If elected, I will take effective measures to prevent river erosion and focus on the development of local roads. To build a drug-free society, I plan to form committees comprising local dignitaries to build social resistance. Additionally, I will give special attention to the education and health sectors.
What instructions have you given to your activists regarding the election code of conduct?
Elen Bhutto: I have strictly instructed my leaders and activists not to violate the code of conduct out of over-enthusiasm. We must follow all directions provided by the interim government and the Election Commission to ensure a fair election. My supporters will not engage in any activities that could tarnish the government's reputation.
What is your position regarding the referendum on the "July Charter"?
Elen Bhutto: Since my party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has signed the July Charter, I am in favour of the "Yes" vote. I have directed my activists to work in support of the "Yes" vote.
What are your expectations for the upcoming national election?
Elen Bhutto: My expectation is that a democratic system will be restored through a beautiful and fair election under this government.
Jhalokati-2, comprising Jhalokati Sadar and Nalchity, currently has 365,396 voters, including 16,069 new. A significant portion of these new voters are young, first-time voters who are expected to play a decisive role in the election outcome.
Elen Bhutto's political journey in this seat began following the sudden death of her husband, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, a former Jatiya Party MP. She first contested as an independent candidate in a 2000 by-election against Awami League's Amir Hossain Amu. In 2001, she joined the BNP and defeated Amu by a large margin to become an MP. While she received the BNP nomination in 2008, she lost the seat during the "One-Eleven" government's election.
In the 13th National Parliament Election, Elen Bhutto faces seven other candidates, including S.M. Nyamul Karim (Jamaat-e-Islami), Mohammad Sirajul Islam Siraji (Islami Andolan), and Mahmudul Islam Sagar (Gono Odhikar Parishad).
