Renowned activist and photographer Taslima Akhter officially commenced her electoral campaign for the Dhaka-12 constituency today, pledging a shift from traditional rhetoric to tangible results. Under the evocative slogan “Less Talk, More Work; I Love Bangladesh,” she began her journey by paying floral tributes at the Central Shaheed Minar, honoring the martyrs of the Language Movement.
A Candidate of the Grassroots
Taslima Akhter, a member of the Political Council of Ganosamhati Andolan (GSA), is contesting the 13th National Parliamentary Election with the “Mathal” (traditional straw hat) symbol. Known internationally for her work as a photographer and labor organizer, she brings a unique profile to the race—that of a researcher, teacher, and Rokeya Padak awardee who has spent decades fighting for the rights of garment workers and women.
Her campaign, which began this morning, is set to continue until February 10. During the launch, she was accompanied by GSA Executive Coordinator Abul Hasan Rubel, central party leaders, and a diverse group of supporters from across the Dhaka-12 area.
The Battle for Dhaka-12
The Dhaka-12 constituency, covering key areas like Tejgaon, Ramna, and Hatirjheel, has emerged as one of the most competitive seats in the country. With the Election Commission confirming 15 valid candidates for this seat—the highest number in any single constituency this year—the race is expected to be a multi-cornered fight.
While major political blocks like the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami have fielded strong contenders, Taslima Akhter is positioning herself as the voice of the working class and the disillusioned youth. Her platform focuses on:
- Dismantling Inequality: Addressing the stark wealth gap in the heart of the capital.
- Labor Rights: Leveraging her history with the Garment Sramik Sanghati to advocate for fair wages.
- Urban Reform: Solving the chronic issues of drainage, security, and extortion that plague the Tejgaon and Nakhalpara neighborhoods.
On the Trail
Following the tribute at the Shaheed Minar, Taslima Akhter and her team of volunteers spent the day conducting door-to-door mass contact programs across various wards. In the afternoon, she held exchange meetings with residents in the Nakhalpara and Green Road areas.
“Our struggle is not just for a seat in Parliament, but for a Bangladesh where the dignity of labor is upheld,” a campaign volunteer noted during the rally.
As the campaign gains momentum, all eyes are on the “Mathal” symbol to see if Taslima Akhter’s history of activism can translate into a transformative victory at the polls on February 12.
