Sirajganj-4 Candidates Unite to Pledge Peaceful Polls

In a rare and commendable display of democratic solidarity, all parliamentary candidates for the Sirajganj-4 (Ullapara) constituency gathered on a single stage to formally declare their election manifestos. The event, held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, 22 January 2026, saw five rival contenders commit to upholding the official code of conduct to ensure a free, fair, and non-violent environment for the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election.

A Unified Platform for Democracy

Organised by the Ullapara Upazila Administration, the “Manifesto Reading and Code of Conduct Declaration” was a strategic effort to foster mutual respect among political rivals. The session was presided over by the Upazila Nirbaho Officer (UNO) and Assistant Returning Officer, ATM Arif, who emphasised the importance of transparency and civility as the nation approaches the polls.

The five candidates, representing a broad spectrum of political ideologies, took turns presenting their visions for the development of Ullapara. This collective appearance is particularly significant in the current political climate, where the suspension of the former ruling party has reshaped local rivalries, primarily into a contest between nationalist and Islamist factions.

Sirajganj-4: Candidate Profiles and Affiliations

Commitments to Peaceful Conduct

During their respective addresses, the candidates moved beyond local development promises to focus on the integrity of the electoral process. Each aspirant signed a pledge to adhere strictly to the guidelines set by the Election Commission, promising to refrain from provocative rhetoric and to prevent their supporters from engaging in clashes.

M. Akbar Ali, a veteran BNP politician and two-time former MP, highlighted the need for restoring a “true democratic environment,” while Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan of Jamaat-e-Islami focused on ensuring that the 2026 polls reflect the genuine will of the people. Smaller parties, including the CPB and Islami Andolan, used the platform to call for an end to the “money and muscle” culture that has historically plagued local elections.

Administrative Oversight

The event was attended by high-ranking local officials, including Assistant Commissioner (Land) Sharmin Akter Rima, Upazila Education Officer Mostafizur Rahman, and social welfare representatives. Their presence underscored the administration’s role as a neutral facilitator in the election.

By bringing rivals together on a single stage, the Ullapara administration has set a benchmark for other constituencies. The ceremony concluded with a symbolic gesture of unity, as candidates expressed their shared hope that Sirajganj-4 would serve as a model for peaceful participation on polling day.