Feni BNP Leader Sparks Outrage Over 'Prophet' Remark

Professor MA Khalek, a Feni District Council Administrator and joint convener of the district BNP, has sparked fresh nationwide controversy after publicly referring to a government minister as a "beloved prophet." The remark has drawn fierce backlash across social media and deeply embarrassed his own political party.

The incident occurred on Saturday (May 30) during a discussion meeting in Daganbhuiyan, organized to observe the martyrdom anniversary of former President Ziaur Rahman.

While introducing the chief guest—BNP Vice Chairman and Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Abdul Awal Mintu—Khalek told the audience, "The chief guest of our event is... my, your, and everyone's beloved prophet, beloved man."

The comment immediately triggered visible unease and whispers among the party activists in attendance. Religious scholars and local leaders quickly condemned the comparison, calling it a severe lapse in judgment that offends religious sentiments.

"Comparing any human being to a prophet is a grave theological offense—tantamount to shirk (idolatry) in Islam," a local cleric stated on the condition of anonymity. "It is deeply unfortunate to hear this from a high-ranking political figure."

Local BNP insiders admit the party is reeling from embarrassment. Several senior district leaders clarified that the organization cannot shoulder the blame for an individual’s reckless rhetoric, adding that the district unit will not protect anyone who violates party discipline or core principles.

This is not an isolated incident for the controversial administrator. Khalek has a documented history of public relations blunders:

September 7, 2023: During a BNP foundation anniversary event, he accidentally labeled his own organization a "fascist political party." He later apologized, blaming a "slip of the tongue," though the gaffe drew widespread mockery from political rivals.

April 16, 2026: Khalek faced severe public criticism for abuse of power after demanding and receiving a ceremonial 'guard of honor' from school students during an annual sports competition at Motabi Adarsh High School.

Political analysts note that Khalek’s habitual verbal missteps are increasingly isolating him within his constituency, turning an influential administrative position into a liability for his party.