MP Candidate Promises Marriages as Election Incentive

In an unusual electoral pledge that has captured widespread attention on social media, independent candidate Asha Moni, contesting the Thakurgaon-3 constituency, has promised to arrange marriages for voters if elected. Instead of the conventional political commitments, her campaign revolves around what she calls a “wedding gift” for constituents.

During a public outreach event on Wednesday, 28 January, in Nekmord area of Ranisankail Upazila, Asha Moni told reporters that many young voters frequently approach her with requests to help arrange their marriages. “Many young men and women come to me saying, ‘Aunty, please help us get married,’” she said. “My message to them is simple: give me your vote, one by one, and if I emerge victorious, I will make it easier for you to marry.”

Her appeal extends beyond the youth. Moni has sought votes from voters of all ages—including grandparents, uncles, aunts, and extended family members—framing her promise of facilitating marriages as a gift for everyone.

Unsurprisingly, Moni’s pledge has sparked a flurry of humour on social media platforms. One netizen, Joydeb Debnath, commented: “Some promise paradise, some a family card, and here comes Asha Moni, offering a husband or wife!”

This is not Moni’s first foray into politics. She previously contested local government elections, though she received only a handful of votes at the time. Regardless of the electoral outcome, local social worker Ambia Khatun praised her for courageously advocating for women’s empowerment and rights, describing her as “a fearless pathfinder in the struggle for female agency.”

The upcoming 13th national parliamentary election in Thakurgaon-3 will see a total of ten candidates competing. Across the entire Thakurgaon district, which comprises three constituencies, only two women are standing: Asha Moni in Thakurgaon-3 and Nuruunnahar Begum of the Jatiya Party in Thakurgaon-2.

Moni’s unconventional campaign approach has made her a talking point nationwide, raising discussions about creative political pledges, voter engagement, and the role of women in Bangladeshi politics. Whether voters respond to her promise of matrimonial assistance remains to be seen, but her campaign has undoubtedly brought attention to the Thakurgaon-3 constituency ahead of the polls.