TBT DESK: Veteran BNP leader and freedom fighter M A H Selim—widely known as Silver Selim—has announced his intention to contest the next National Parliament election from the Bagerhat-2 constituency, covering Sadar and Kachua. A former Member of Parliament from 2001 to 2006, Selim is seeking the BNP nomination to run under the party’s ‘Dhaner Sheesh’ (sheaf of paddy) symbol.

Since making his announcement, Selim has begun an active campaign across the constituency, holding rallies, meeting grassroots leaders and engaging with residents. Speaking to supporters, he reflected on his previous tenure, saying he had overseen “wide-ranging development” in Bagerhat, including the town protection embankment, roads, bridges, and the establishment of educational and religious institutions for different communities.

“After that period, Bagerhat did not see the level of development it deserved,” Selim said. He explained that during the years of Awami League rule he remained largely outside frontline politics, citing political pressure. “After the fall of the Awami League, people from all walks of life in Bagerhat have encouraged me to return. Their expectation is that, if elected, I can help change lives, accelerate development and create jobs.”

Selim said he would seek the BNP High Command’s nomination, urging party leaders to consider his popularity and experience in the area. He added that even without the nomination, he intends to remain in the electoral race.

A prominent industrialist and proprietor of Silver Line Group, Selim outlined an ambitious vision for the constituency. “I want to turn Bagerhat-2 into a modern economic hub,” he said. “My focus will be on industrialisation, employment for young people, and modernising healthcare and education. To me, politics is only a means of serving the people.”

He also revealed that work has already begun on a comprehensive economic blueprint aimed at improving local infrastructure and overall quality of life ahead of the election.

The BNP is yet to announce candidates for any of the Bagerhat seats. However, Selim’s return to active politics after nearly two decades has stirred noticeable excitement in the district. A public reception organised recently to welcome him home drew a large crowd, a turnout many see as a sign of his enduring support.

Grassroots activists believe his comeback could fill a long-standing leadership vacuum. “We have missed a tested and strong leader for years,” said one local worker at the reception. “Selim Bhai’s return has inspired us anew. We hope he will lead the party into the 2026 election.”

A resident of Mukkhait village in Bagerhat Sadar Upazila, Selim entered district politics in the late 1990s and later became president of the district BNP. In the 2001 general election, he defeated Sheikh Helal Uddin—an influential Awami League leader and cousin of party chief Sheikh Hasina—to win the Bagerhat-2 seat. During his term, projects such as the Muniganj Bridge, the town protection embankment, Majeda Begum Agricultural Technology College and Belayet Hossain Degree College were established.

Following the BNP’s exit from power, Selim stepped down as district party president during the caretaker government period and gradually withdrew from politics. His renewed presence, supporters say, marks the beginning of a new chapter in Bagerhat’s political landscape.