Barishal-6 MP and freedom fighter Abul Hossain Khan called for mosque imams and muezzins to be appointed on merit rather than party considerations at a meeting in Bakerganj, Barishal. The discussion with imams, muezzins and khadems from different mosques in the upazila was held Tuesday afternoon at the Bakerganj municipal auditorium, chaired by Upazila Nirbahi Officer Milton Chandra Pal.

Speaking as chief guest, Khan said religious education should be expanded alongside modern education. He said religious education has no alternative in establishing morality, human values and social discipline. He urged appointments to be based on qualifications, honesty and religious knowledge, and said religious institutions should remain free from political influence.

Khan said an imam’s role extends beyond leading prayers to promoting morality, humanity and correct Islamic teachings in society. He added that religious leaders can help foster peace, harmony and social awareness. Expanding religious education is essential to protect younger generations from moral decline, he said. The meeting was moderated by Upazila BNP leader Mizanur Rahman Chunnu and attended by several local BNP and Olama Dal figures.