BNP candidate for Jhalokati-2 (Jhalokati Sadar and Nalchity) Israt Sultana Elen Bhutto. Photo: BSS

JHALOKATI, Feb 7, 2026 (BSS) – 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.

BSS: What are your election promises for the voters of your constituency?
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.

BSS: 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.

BSS: 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.

BSS: 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).