In an extraordinary display of democratic civility, all contesting candidates for the Sirajganj-4 (Ullapara) constituency have appeared on a unified platform to present their electoral manifestos. Held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, 22 January 2026, the event served as a public commitment to upholding the electoral code of conduct and ensuring a non-violent atmosphere for the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum.
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A Unified Front for Political Harmony
The ceremony, organised by the Ullapara Upazila Administration, was presided over by the Upazila Nirbaho Officer (UNO) and Assistant Returning Officer, ATM Arif. This initiative is a proactive measure by the interim government’s local administration to mitigate the risk of pre-election friction in a region known for its intense political rivalries.
The presence of five major contenders on a single stage is being hailed by local civil society as a landmark moment for Ullapara. By reading their manifestos side-by-side, the candidates signaled to their respective supporters that while their visions for the constituency differ, their commitment to a peaceful democratic process is absolute.
Sirajganj-4: Candidate Manifesto Declaration
| Candidate Name | Political Party | Key Policy Focus |
| M. Akbar Ali | Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) | Restoration of Democracy & Rule of Law |
| Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan | Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami | Ethical Governance & Social Equity |
| Mufti Abdur Rahman | Islami Andolan Bangladesh | Moral Reform & Grassroots Welfare |
| Md. Hilton Pramanik | Jatiya Party | Economic Development & Infrastructure |
| Md. Abdul Hakim | Communist Party (CPB) | Labour Rights & Proportional Representation |
Commitments to the Electoral Code
During the session, each candidate formally pledged to adhere to the strict guidelines set by the Election Commission. These pledges focus on:
Non-Violence: Ensuring that supporters do not engage in clashes or intimidation.
Civility: Refraining from provocative rhetoric or personal attacks during rallies.
Transparency: Allowing for an open and observable voting environment on 12 February.
Assistant Commissioner (Land) Sharmin Akter Rima and other senior officials, including the Upazila Education and Social Services officers, were present to witness the signing of the declarations. Their participation underscored the administration’s role as a neutral arbiter in the transition towards a newly elected parliament.
A Model for National Stability
The Sirajganj-4 model of collective manifesto reading is expected to serve as a blueprint for other constituencies. In a year defined by the suspension of the former ruling party and the rise of a new “youth vote bank,” such displays of unity are vital in preventing the “money and muscle” culture of previous cycles.
The candidates concluded the event by urging the electorate to participate in the upcoming referendum and general election, promising that regardless of the outcome, they would respect the collective will of the people of Ullapara.
