Kishoreganj-4 Member of Parliament Fazlur Rahman has rejected claims that his funeral prayers would not be conducted, stating that those making such assertions are affiliated with Jamaat. He made the remarks on Saturday (3 May) while responding to questions from journalists.
The veteran freedom fighter dismissed the claims and said there would be no shortage of people to organise or lead his funeral prayers. “Those who are making such statements are Jamaat supporters. I have many respected spiritual guides, including pirs, auliyas, and other revered religious figures. There will be no shortage of people to conduct my funeral prayers,” he said.
Referring to the issue, Mr Rahman added, “Those who say my funeral prayers will not be conducted — Allah may take them before me.” His comments came in response to ongoing discussion regarding his funeral rites.
He also explained the distinction between his political responsibilities and his spiritual beliefs. “Becoming a Member of Parliament is my political commitment, but it is not my spiritual faith,” he said. “I am a believer in Allah and His Messenger, and I believe in the Qur’an.”
Mr Rahman stated that he follows the Sufi tradition, noting that his religious orientation differs from more conservative interpretations. “I belong to the Sufi tradition. If Allah has ordained that my funeral prayers will take place, then Wahhabi elements associated with Jamaat will not be required to conduct them,” he said.
He reaffirmed his affiliation with the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat tradition and expressed confidence that appropriate religious figures would be present. “I believe that when my body is placed before them, there will be no shortage of people to offer my funeral prayers,” he added.
His remarks come amid broader differences within sections of the Muslim community in Bangladesh. However, his statements remained focused on rejecting the claims about his funeral and reaffirming his religious identity and beliefs.