Free Marketing: How a Viral Blunder Gained Jamaat Millions

In the age of digital politics, controversial statements can either sink a campaign or propel it to national prominence. For Faizul Haque, the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami candidate for Jhalokati-1, a recent viral clip regarding tobacco users and political outreach has become an unexpected windfall. Far from being embarrassed by the social media storm, Haque claims the incident has secured an additional two crore (20 million) votes for his party.

Turning Controversy into "Divine Marketing"

The remarks were made during a reception for Dr Mahmuda Mitu, the Joint Chief Organiser of the National Citizens' Party (NCP), held at the Kathalia Upazila Jamaat-e-Islami headquarters on Wednesday evening. Haque addressed the backlash surrounding a video in which he discussed reaching out to citizens in tea stalls, including those smoking bidis (traditional cigarettes).

"We must be cautious on Facebook because everything we say goes viral," Haque remarked with a sense of triumph. "However, that specific speech has been misinterpreted. Rather than hurting us, it has boosted Jamaat’s support by two crore votes. It is essentially two crore takas worth of free marketing gifted to us by the Almighty."

Candidate Profile & Campaign Analytics: Jhalokati-1

Inclusivity and the Tea-Stall Strategy

Haque clarified that his intentions were rooted in the philosophy of grassroots inclusivity. He argued that his activists should not discriminate against individuals based on their habits or appearance.

"I told my workers that if they encounter someone at a tea stall, they must deliver the message of the 'Scales' (Jamaat’s symbol), even if that person is in the middle of drinking tea or smoking a bidi," he explained. "Why is this a problem? Do people who smoke not vote? Do men without beards not have a voice? Everyone has the potential to change their habits if Allah wills it."

He further philosophicalised that the concepts of Heaven and Hell were created for human reformation, and political parties should similarly embrace people as they are to lead them toward a better path.

Confidence in Jhalokati-1

As the 13th National Parliamentary Election approaches on 12 February, Haque expressed absolute confidence in a victory for the 10-party alliance. Having toured the Rajapur and Kathalia regions extensively, he noted a palpable desire for change among the local electorate.

"The people have seen every other political brand over the decades; now, they want to see what the 'Scales' can do for them," he asserted. "We will not return home until victory is secured, Insha'Allah."

While critics view his "two crore votes" claim as hyperbolic, the incident highlights a shift in how conservative candidates are leveraging social media algorithms to bypass traditional media gatekeepers and reach a younger, more digitally active demographic.