Zillur Rahman defends wife’s selection as BNP MP

President of Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) Zillur Rahman on Tuesday defended his wife Fahmida Haq’s selection as Member of Parliament (reserved seats for women) from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), stressing that in a democracy, members of the same family may pursue different public roles, but professional integrity must always remain independent.

Zillur said the principles that guide his work - intellectual independence, fairness, and commitment to open debate - will continue to shape everything he does.

“I wish Fahmida success in carrying out her new responsibilities with sincerity and dedication. For my part, I will continue to pursue my professional work with the same independence and commitment that have guided my journey in journalism and policy discourse for many years,” he said in a statement, noting that many friends, colleagues, and members of the media have asked for his reaction.

Zillur, a journalist, columnist and Talk Show host, said Fahmida’s engagement with public issues did not begin today.

“For many years she has been involved in writing, social initiatives, and policy discussions. She has travelled widely across Bangladesh and beyond, interacted with diverse communities, and contributed to public conversations through her writings and civic engagement. Her interest in politics has evolved gradually through these experiences and through her own conviction about the importance of public service,” he said.

Zillur said her selection as a Member of Parliament therefore reflects a continuation of that engagement.

He sincerely hoped she will carry out this responsibility with integrity and contribute positively to parliamentary life and democratic discourse in Bangladesh.

“At the same time, I would like to make one matter very clear. My professional life - as a journalist, columnist, talk-show host, and head of a policy think tank - has been built over decades through independent work in the media and policy arena. That professional responsibility remains unchanged,” Zillur said.