Jhalokathi, Jan 11 (V7N) — Remarks made by Dr. Fayzul Haque, the Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh–nominated candidate for the Jhalokathi-1 constituency, have sparked widespread controversy after a video of his speech circulated widely on social media. The comments, delivered at an election courtyard meeting in Rajapur on Wednesday night (January 7), focused on smoking and voting and have drawn criticism over alleged violations of existing laws and the electoral code of conduct.

The speech was broadcast live on a Facebook page bearing his name and later went viral on Thursday night, prompting intense discussion across online platforms. In the video, Dr. Fayzul Haque is heard suggesting that even taking a “pleasant puff” of a bidi while asking people to vote for the “scale” symbol could be forgiven by God. He framed the remarks as casual storytelling, saying his intention was to engage and entertain the audience.

He further stated that it was possible for someone who had never practiced religious worship to find divine acceptance through promoting the party’s symbol, adding that God might forgive past actions and grant goodness in return. His comments appeared to link political campaigning with religious absolution, which intensified public reaction.

Addressing men in the audience, he advised them to spend modestly on tea while engaging in political conversations, encouraging them to spread the message of his anticipated electoral victory. Referring to women voters, he urged them to remain awake on election night until midnight on February 11, prepare good food at home, care for their husbands, and then go together with family members and relatives to polling centers to cast their votes, followed by celebrations after vote counting.

The viral video has drawn sharp reactions online. Many users and observers argue that openly encouraging bidi smoking contradicts existing tobacco control laws and could constitute a punishable offense. Others have raised concerns that the remarks may breach electoral conduct rules by mixing religious sentiment, lifestyle advice, and campaigning.

Responding to the criticism, Dr. Fayzul Haque said his comments were being misrepresented. He maintained that his intention was to seek support from people of all walks of life and denied encouraging any unlawful activity.

The incident has added a new dimension to the ongoing election discourse in the region, with calls from various quarters for authorities to review the matter in light of legal and electoral regulations.

END/SMR/SMA/