BNP accuses Jamaat of exploiting religion to win votes

BNP today (28 January) accused the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami of exploiting religious sentiments and offering money to influence voters during the ongoing election campaign. The party called the moves a clear case of political double standards.

“Jamaat was part of the government from 2001 to 2005, holding two ministerial posts and several parliamentary seats, but they never spoke against corruption,” Mahdi Amin, spokesperson of BNP’s Central Election Steering Committee, told reporters at the party’s Gulshan office.

Mahdi said Jamaat is now using religion to attract votes, forcing people to swear on the Holy Quran and distributing money through bKash. “Those who try to buy votes are lecturing others on corruption. It raises serious doubts about their honesty,” he said.

He also criticised misleading campaign promises, citing a recent rally in Bogura where Jamaat’s Ameer claimed a public university would be built and the municipality upgraded to a city corporation.

“Both decisions are already approved by the government. Presenting them as new promises misleads voters,” Mahdi said.

The BNP spokesperson further condemned the dismissal of Al Amin Chowdhury, a mosque muezzin in Sapahar upazila, Naogaon, reportedly removed for supporting the “Paddy-Sheaf” election symbol.

“This violates democratic rights. We demand his immediate reinstatement,” he said.

Mahdi also referred to a video circulating from Sylhet in which a candidate claimed police would need his permission to enter homes if elected.

“This is unconstitutional and undermines law enforcement. Authorities must act,” he added.