'I am not going anywhere,' says Tasnim Jara

Tasnim Jara outlined her post-election plans today (13 February), making it clear that her political journey will continue despite her defeat in the Dhaka-9 constituency.

In a Facebook post today, she congratulated the BNP for winning the national election and Habibur Rashid Habib for his victory in the constituency.

Jara wrote, "I congratulate BNP for winning the national election and Habibur Rashid Habib for his victory in Dhaka-9. I called him last night to personally convey my best wishes."

She added that she hopes they will work in the interest of Dhaka-9 and the country.

Positioning herself as a constructive political force, she said, "We will support welfare initiatives for the people. But we will speak out against any decision that harms citizens."

Addressing speculation about her future, Jara firmly dismissed rumours of leaving the country.

"Many are thinking that after the election I might return to the United Kingdom. I am not going anywhere. My roots are in this soil, and my work is here," she wrote, signalling her intention to stay in Bangladesh and continue political engagement beyond a single election.

Reflecting on the campaign, she described the more than 44,000 votes she secured as "a strong foundation", arguing that the result demonstrates public demand for "clean politics".

However, she acknowledged organisational limitations, noting that sustaining such politics requires stronger grassroots structures, including having polling agents at every booth and vigilant citizens outside centres to counter intimidation.

Highlighting women's participation in her campaign as one of its biggest achievements. "Do not be afraid to dream. You have the right to be at the centre of power," she wrote, encouraging young girls and women to aspire to leadership and greater political involvement.

Praising volunteers, she said they had created a rare example of civic political engagement.

"You have won people's hearts, and that is the hardest victory in politics," she added, urging them to remain organised and vocal.

She also paid tribute to what she described as the "fearless fighters of July", saying the current democratic environment was built on their sacrifice.

Jara thanked Muhammad Yunus, his administration and the Election Commission for organising what she termed a credible election during a complex period.

Concluding her message, she wrote, "Our best time is still ahead."