Kamrul Huda, joint convener of the BNP’s Cumilla South District unit and president of the BNP’s Chauddagram Upazila branch, has stirred controversy by claiming that mentioning the name of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman daily ensures a place in heaven. He made the statement on Wednesday during an event held at the Chauddagram central Eidgah ground to mark the anniversary of the BNP’s student wing, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal.
The remarks have since gone viral on social media, sparking criticism and heated debates. Many questioned the propriety of linking religious beliefs to political figures, while others supported Huda’s sentiment as a reflection of Ziaur Rahman’s contributions to Bangladesh.
During his speech, Kamrul Huda commented, “Some groups distribute ‘certificates to heaven.’ They come to neighborhoods, hold events, and assure the organizers that they will go to heaven. We need to be cautious of these so-called heaven-certifiers.”
He further elaborated, “If you mention the name of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman daily, I firmly believe heaven is assured. He did not deceive the people, nor did he betray the soil of this country. He fought for the liberation of the nation, rebuilt it, and made it economically self-reliant. Therefore, invoking his name ensures blessings.”
Huda also criticized political opponents who, according to him, exploit religious sentiments for votes. “They claim that voting for them guarantees heaven. Beware of these people and their baseless claims. Protect yourselves from these so-called ‘heavenly certifiers,’” he added.
The speech, which quickly spread across social media platforms, has drawn mixed reactions. Critics argue that such statements unnecessarily blend religion with politics, diverting focus from policy and governance. Others within the BNP and Ziaur Rahman supporters defended the remarks, viewing them as an acknowledgment of the former president’s significant contributions to the nation.
This statement comes at a time when political rhetoric in Bangladesh remains deeply polarized. As the country moves closer to elections, such controversial remarks are likely to fuel further debate and scrutiny of political figures’ public statements.
