Jamaat-e-Islami is moving forward with a significant strategy centered on women’s votes in the upcoming national elections. The party’s women’s wing has been staging public programs—including human chains, seminars, and meetings with foreign diplomats—signaling its strong presence. Analysts suggest that this extensive grassroots network of women activists could become a “game changer” for Jamaat in the next election.

Expanding Activities and Electoral Preparations

Leaders of Jamaat confirm that their women’s wing is organizing activities ranging from member conventions and community meetings to voter assemblies. In addition to organizational work, election-related tasks are already underway. According to party sources, Jamaat is eager to secure women’s votes to strengthen its electoral base. With several hundred thousand female activists, the women’s wing is said to be ahead of rival parties in terms of election preparedness.

Despite facing crackdowns, lawsuits, and repression under the previous Awami League government, the women’s wing reportedly continued underground activities. Following the government’s fall on August 5 last year, they have become more active in public. From protests against child abuse to rallies condemning Israeli attacks in Gaza, the wing has visibly increased its presence.

The wing has also engaged diplomatically. On May 19, a delegation led by its Secretary, Nurunnisa Siddiqua, met British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke to discuss women’s empowerment and political participation. On July 21, its leaders sat alongside Jamaat’s top leadership in a meeting with U.S. Embassy officials in Dhaka.

Strength in Numbers

According to Jamaat sources, the party has over one million members nationwide—60% male and 40% female. Within the women’s wing, ranks are divided into associate members, workers, and “rukon” (full members). There are about 50,000 rukon, around 400,000 workers, and numerous associate members.

Women activists have already gained political experience. Jamaat candidates have been elected as female vice chairpersons of upazila parishads and members of union councils. In past elections, women from the party were elected to reserved parliamentary seats, with four serving between 2001 and 2005.

Maulana Abdul Halim, Jamaat’s Assistant Secretary General, said:

“Our women’s wing includes people from all professions—doctors, engineers, teachers, even domestic workers. Women are becoming increasingly interested in voting. Our activists are visiting households, engaging directly with voters, and drawing unprecedented crowds.”

Challenges Around Women’s Voting

Nurunnisa Siddiqua stressed that Jamaat’s women’s wing primarily works to promote Islamic values and strengthen family and community life. Electoral activities, she noted, are undertaken according to party directives.

“We encourage women to see their vote as a trust. But in many households, women still follow the decisions of husbands or sons. We tell them they should vote according to conscience.”

She also acknowledged challenges in encouraging women to physically go to polling centers, saying that turnout would depend heavily on the security environment on election day.

Addressing Criticism

Jamaat leaders reject accusations of misogyny or exclusion. Abdul Halim argued that with nearly half of the party’s base made up of women, such labels are baseless:

“In a few years, the number of female rukon will surpass men. Yet critics say we are not inclusive. Our women activists are essential to our movement.”

Party insiders also revealed that Jamaat is considering fielding women candidates in general seats—something it has never done before outside of reserved constituencies. Leaders are reportedly discussing more inclusive panels that could feature women, Hindus, and even non-rukon candidates.

Analysts’ View

Political analysts believe Jamaat’s organized women’s wing is a significant strength. Dr. Sabbir Ahmed, Professor of Political Science at Dhaka University, said:

“If Jamaat can effectively mobilize its large female base, it will be a major advantage. Their coordinated presence in grassroots campaigns can make a real difference.”

Dr. S. M. Ali Reza, also of Dhaka University, added:

“This well-organized women’s network could play a decisive role. Jamaat has recently performed strongly in student union elections. Translating that momentum into the national polls will be crucial for them.”

With a large, disciplined women’s wing, growing grassroots activity, and strategic engagement with foreign diplomats, Jamaat-e-Islami appears determined to leverage women’s votes as a central pillar of its electoral strategy.