Fazlur Rahman Responds to Janaza Remarks

Kishoreganj-4 Member of Parliament Fazlur Rahman has stated that those claiming his funeral prayers would not be conducted are affiliated with Jamaat, responding to a question from journalists on Saturday (3 May).

Addressing the issue, the veteran freedom fighter dismissed the remarks and asserted that there would be no shortage of people to lead or attend his funeral prayers. He said, “Those who are making such statements are Jamaat supporters. I have many respected spiritual guides, including pirs, auliyas, and other revered religious figures. There will be no shortage of people to lead my funeral prayers.”

He further added, “Those who say my funeral prayers will not be conducted — Allah may take them before me.” His comments came in response to circulating claims regarding his funeral rites.

Mr Rahman also clarified the distinction between his political role and his spiritual beliefs. “Becoming a Member of Parliament is my political commitment, but it is not my spiritual faith,” he said. “I am a believer in Allah and His Messenger, and I believe in the Qur’an.”

Describing his religious orientation, he stated that he follows the Sufi tradition. “I belong to the Sufi line. If Allah has ordained that I will have funeral prayers, then Wahhabi elements from Jamaat will not be required to conduct them,” he said. He reiterated that respected religious figures within his own tradition would be present.

The lawmaker emphasised his affiliation with the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat tradition, expressing confidence that adequate religious support would be available. “I believe that when my body is placed before them, there will be no shortage of people to offer my funeral prayers,” he added.

His remarks come amid broader ideological differences within segments of the Muslim community in Bangladesh, particularly between Sufi-oriented adherents and groups associated with more conservative interpretations. However, Mr Rahman’s statements remained focused on rejecting claims about his funeral and reaffirming his religious identity and affiliations.