A controversial statement by AR Hafiz Ullah, the Jamaat-e-Islami candidate for Lakshmipur-4 (Ramgati-Kamolnagar), has ignited political debate ahead of the forthcoming parliamentary elections. During a campaign rally, Hafiz Ullah took to the microphone and addressed voters directly, asserting: “If you vote for Islam and uphold the Holy Qur’an, heaven is guaranteed for you. Voting against the Qur’an will be considered sinful.”
The remarks, captured on video, rapidly circulated across social media, drawing widespread attention and criticism. Critics have accused the candidate of attempting to exploit religious sentiment to influence voters, a tactic widely considered both ethically questionable and in potential violation of electoral regulations.
In addition to his religious appeals, Hafiz Ullah criticised the government’s delivery of social welfare programmes. He claimed that benefits such as widow allowances, elderly pensions, child grants, maternity support, and aid for persons with disabilities are failing to reach intended recipients. “One group is mired in corruption, while another has a history of moral lapses. Under our administration, I assure you, as a parent or sibling of this community, that corruption will have no place,” the candidate stated.
Following the controversy, Hafiz Ullah sought to clarify his remarks, stating: “I cannot recall making such a statement deliberately. It may have been expressed unintentionally. At times, my words are also taken out of context.”
Administrative authorities are now investigating the incident. Nilufa Yasmin, Executive Officer of Ramgati Upazila and Assistant Returning Officer, confirmed that the matter is under review. “If a formal written complaint is lodged, it will be forwarded to the Returning Officer, and necessary action will be taken,” she said.
The key details of the incident are summarised in the table below:
| Topic | Information |
|---|---|
| Candidate | AR Hafiz Ullah |
| Constituency | Lakshmipur-4 (Ramgati-Kamolnagar) |
| Political Party | Jamaat-e-Islami |
| Controversial Statement | Guaranteed heaven for votes supporting Islam |
| Date of Speech | 8 February 2026 (Sunday) |
| Location | Ramgati Upazila, Lakshmipur |
| Video Circulation | Social media platforms |
| Administrative Response | Under investigation; formal complaint to Returning Officer if filed |
Political analysts have warned that invoking religious sentiment to influence voters contravenes both the constitution and electoral conduct guidelines. They emphasised that voters must be given accurate information and allowed to exercise their franchise freely, without coercion based on religious or personal pressure.
The episode has attracted significant attention locally and nationally, with civil society groups and election monitors closely observing administrative actions to ensure that the upcoming election proceeds in a transparent, fair, and ethically responsible manner.