Maintaining an honest and clean image throughout a political career spanning over 44 years, Advocate Abul Kalam Shahin has emerged as one of the most dependable, grassroots-friendly, and tested leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Barishal. Currently serving as the Member Secretary of BNP’s Barishal South District unit, Shahin is widely regarded as the “helmsman during BNP’s crisis” and a trusted leader for the people of Barishal-5 (Sadar constituency). In the present political context, Shahin has become a respected and acceptable figure among the younger generation. Alongside creating employment opportunities, promoting quality education, and spearheading anti-narcotics campaigns, he has also launched various programs to enhance political awareness among the youth—earning him recognition not merely as a leader, but as a “friend” of the younger generation. His courageous leadership, organizational efficiency, and strong connection with the masses have established him as a reliable figure in Barishal politics.

Shahin, whose prime objective has always been public welfare, entered politics during his student life, driven by honesty, dignity, and a sense of responsibility. Rising from Chhatra Dal to Jubo Dal and finally BNP, his journey has not been free from hardship. He faced persecution during the regimes of both autocrat Ershad and Sheikh Hasina, including repeated arrests, fabricated cases, and even the loss of basic civil rights. Despite this, his steadfast role in BNP’s struggles—including the July Uprising—earned him widespread respect across political circles.

Known for his social and humanitarian initiatives, Shahin has consistently stood by BNP leaders and activists throughout the past 16 years of political repression, particularly during the Awami League’s rule. From arranging medical support for injured activists during protests to personally enduring harassment and imprisonment, his resilience has made him a symbol of BNP’s endurance in Barishal.

Political Background

• Advocate Shahin is a distinguished lawyer and social worker, holding MA and LLB degrees.

• He began politics in 1982 as the General Secretary of the BM School Chhatra Dal Committee.

• Over the years, he rose through the ranks—serving as General Secretary and Joint Secretary at district-level Chhatra Dal, elected twice as District Chhatra Dal’s General Secretary, later as District Jubo Dal leader, and eventually as a key figure in BNP.

• He became Joint General Secretary of Barishal District BNP in 2004, later Joint Convener in 2009, and served as District BNP General Secretary from 2013 to 2022.

• In 2023, he was elected as the Member Secretary of BNP’s Barishal South District committee, a position he holds to date.

• Despite facing 17 cases under political vendetta, he never compromised his principles or bowed his head.

Development & Social Engagement

Shahin has consistently worked for the people of Barishal-5, assisting the poor and distressed. He has played an active role in employment generation, promoting education, and combating drug abuse. He also engages the youth through social media, bringing a digital dimension to BNP’s politics. His contributions to infrastructure development—schools, roads, and other facilities—have been widely recognized by locals.

Steadfast in Adversity

Even in the face of continuous persecution—cases, arrests, and harassment under Sheikh Hasina’s government—Shahin never abandoned BNP’s struggle. His sacrifices and commitment earned him respect not just from party workers but also from ordinary voters, making him an accepted leader across all communities in Barishal.

Election Ground Realities

As the 13th National Election approaches, Shahin has become the focal point of grassroots BNP activists in Barishal-5. His name is the most widely discussed in tea stalls, local meetings, and public gatherings. Workers believe he is their symbol of trust and see him as BNP’s strongest candidate for the constituency.

Local BNP leaders and supporters emphasize that Shahin’s popularity, long-standing sacrifice, and unwavering loyalty to the party make him the natural choice for nomination. Political analysts also agree that despite other aspirants within BNP and competition from Jamaat and Islami Andolon candidates, Shahin’s credibility with the masses gives him a clear edge.

Public Sentiment

Voters across Barishal-5 have expressed the need for a representative who truly serves the people. Youths admire his ability to combine experience with inclusivity, while women voters acknowledge his consistent advocacy for women’s development.

Statement from Advocate Abul Kalam Shahin

“I have been on the streets for the past 16 years, despite facing cases, arrests, and harassment. During the July Uprising, I stood with the families of those killed and injured. I have never compromised with principles. Politics is not easy—money alone cannot make one a leader. True leadership comes from standing beside the people. I am doing politics to strengthen Begum Khaleda Zia and Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. If the party nominates me for Barishal-5, InshaAllah, I will deliver this seat to BNP.”

Voices from the Grassroots

BNP worker Md. Jasim Uddin said, “During the fascist regime, Shahin Bhai was imprisoned multiple times. Even after the fall of the Awami League government, he has been working tirelessly to reorganize the party. We have in him a leader who risked his life for democracy and the sovereignty of the nation. If BNP nominates him, Barishal will surely gift the seat to the party.”