Shahriar Kabir, the Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami and a candidate for the Dhaka-15 constituency, has faced significant backlash after images and video footage emerged showing him distributing cash during a campaign event in the Mirpur area.

The incident, which occurred earlier this week, has quickly generated controversy across social media and political circles, with critics alleging that the distribution of money constitutes a blatant violation of the electoral code of conduct. The rules explicitly prohibit candidates from offering gifts, funds, or any form of inducement to influence voters.

In the circulated media, Kabir is seen walking through a crowded street, surrounded by supporters, and pausing to hand small denomination notes directly to individuals, many of whom appeared to be onlookers or local residents. While Kabir’s campaign team has not issued a formal statement regarding the nature of the transaction—whether it was charitable aid or campaign expenditure—opponents immediately seized on the visuals, demanding intervention from the Election Commission (EC).

Political analysts suggest that while small-scale distribution of cash during campaigns is not unprecedented in local politics, the high profile of Kabir as a national party leader contesting a key metropolitan seat amplifies the severity of the alleged breach. Inducing voters with money falls under the definition of corrupt practices, which could potentially lead to sanctions or even disqualification if a formal complaint is upheld by the election tribunal.

Rival parties competing in Dhaka-15 have reportedly compiled evidence from the footage and are preparing to submit a formal complaint to the EC, arguing that the actions compromise the integrity of the election process. This controversy casts a shadow over Kabir’s campaign efforts as the election date approaches, forcing the Jamaat-e-Islami leadership to address the ethical and legal implications of their leading candidate’s conduct.

The Election Commission has yet to officially confirm whether it has initiated an investigation or received a formal complaint regarding the incident.