A video of A R Hafiz Ullah, the Jamaat-e-Islami candidate for the Laxmipur-4 (Ramgati-Kamalnagar) constituency, has sparked widespread controversy after he claimed that voting for the “Scale” (the party’s electoral symbol) would guarantee a place in Paradise (Jannat).
The video, which began circulating on social media on Sunday, shows A R Hafiz Ullah—who also serves as the Secretary of the District Jamaat-e-Islami—addressing voters during a campaign rally.
Religious Promises and Warnings
In the footage, A R Hafiz Ullah is seen speaking through a hand mic, urging voters to align their political choices with their faith.
“If you vote for the Scale in favor of Islam and the Holy Quran, you will receive rewards (Sawab) because you have voted for Allah and the Quran. For this, Paradise is guaranteed for you,” he stated.
He further added a warning for those who choose otherwise, saying, “I say to those who vote against the Holy Quran, they will be sinners.”
Allegations of Corruption and Neglect
Beyond the religious rhetoric, the candidate criticized the current distribution of social safety net programs. He questioned whether voters were receiving benefits such as widow, elderly, child, maternal, or disability allowances.
“You do not get these. Even the fisherman cards are unavailable,” he claimed. “One group has finished everything through corruption, and another group that corrupted in the past is ready to do it again. As your son and brother, I promise that not a single taka of corruption or irregularity will happen through us.”
Candidate and Official Response
When approached regarding the video, A R Hafiz Ullah did not provide a definitive confirmation, citing a lapse in memory.
“I do not remember if I made such a statement. However, it might have been a slip of the tongue, or perhaps my speech is being presented in fragments,” he told reporters.
The local administration has taken note of the incident. Nilufa Yasmin, the Assistant Returning Officer and Ramgati Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), stated that they have heard of the speech from various officials.
“We are investigating the matter. If a written complaint is filed, it will be forwarded to the Returning Officer for necessary legal action,” she added.
The use of religious sentiment in political campaigning is a sensitive issue in Bangladesh, often drawing criticism for potentially misleading voters and violating the electoral code of conduct.
