As Bangladesh prepares for the 13th National Parliamentary Election, scheduled for Thursday, 12 February 2026, the intersection of high finance and frontline politics has come into sharp focus. Three prominent titans of the country’s insurance sector—representing both Life and Non-Life segments—have confirmed their candidacies. Notably, all three veterans are contesting under the “Sheaf of Paddy” symbol, representing the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
The election, which includes a national referendum, will see simultaneous voting across 299 constituencies from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The participation of these industrial heavyweights underscores the significant influence of the insurance and banking sectors on the nation’s political landscape.
Profiles of the Key Candidates
1. Sayeed Ahmed (Shariatpur-1)
Sayeed Ahmed is a formidable figure in the insurance industry, currently serving as the President of the Bangladesh Insurance Association (BIA) for the 2025-2026 term. A director and former chairman of Global Insurance Ltd, his business portfolio is vast, spanning shipping, aviation, and food production.
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Key Roles: Chairman of Ahmed Foundation and Purity Foods; Managing Director of Vantage Securities.
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Industry Influence: President of the Bangladesh Cargo Vessel Owners’ Association and former EC Chairman of Padma Bank.
2. Mohammad Fakhrul Islam (Noakhali-5)
The current Chairman of Fareast Islami Life Insurance Co. Ltd, Mohammad Fakhrul Islam, is contesting from the strategically vital Noakhali-5 seat. Educated at Western University in Virginia, USA, his career began in the garments and real estate sectors before he transitioned into high-level corporate governance.
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Key Roles: Managing Director of Metro Homes Ltd and Chairman of Metro Shopping Mall.
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Philanthropy: Chairman of the Metro Foundation and a Life Member of the Noakhali Red Crescent Society.
3. Abdul Awal Mintoo (Feni-3)
A titan of Bangladeshi industry and a former Chairman of Pragati Life Insurance Ltd, Abdul Awal Mintoo brings unparalleled experience to the Feni-3 race. Currently the Chairman of National Bank, he is a former president of the FBCCI and a renowned scholar-businessman.
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Academic Background: Holds multiple degrees from the State University of New York and the University of London, specialising in Nautical Science, Agricultural Economics, and International Business Law.
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Notable Works: Author of “Bangladesh: Anatomy of Change,” published by Athena Press, London.
Candidate Comparison and Business Footprint
| Candidate | Constituency | Primary Insurance Affiliation | Major Corporate Role |
| Sayeed Ahmed | Shariatpur-1 | Global Insurance Ltd (Director) | President, BIA |
| Mohammad Fakhrul Islam | Noakhali-5 | Fareast Islami Life (Chairman) | MD, Metro Homes Ltd |
| Abdul Awal Mintoo | Feni-3 | Pragati Life (Former Chairman) | Chairman, National Bank |
The Confluence of Business and Governance
The entry of these candidates highlights a trend where seasoned executives seek to translate corporate success into legislative influence. Abdul Awal Mintoo’s extensive involvement in agricultural science through Lal Teer Seed Ltd and Sayeed Ahmed’s grip on the maritime sector suggest that their parliamentary contributions could heavily impact national trade and insurance policies.
Furthermore, Mohammad Fakhrul Islam’s deep-rooted connection to the Noakhali community, combined with his international education, positions him as a candidate blending traditional values with modern management. As the nation heads to the polls tomorrow, the performance of these “Insurance Kings” will be closely watched by both the business community and the general electorate.