Advocate Shaheenur Pasha, a long-time Islamist politician and current central Naib-e-Ameer of Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, has re-emerged as a key contender in Sunamganj-3 constituency ahead of the 13th national election. Once part of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, he later joined Trinamool BNP before contesting the controversial 2024 “dummy” election, losing his deposit. Now running under the rickshaw symbol, Pasha seeks nomination from the new eight-party Islamist alliance. His repeated party switches and participation in the disputed election have drawn criticism within the alliance, which includes Jamaat-e-Islami, Islami Andolon Bangladesh, and others. Rival candidates Advocate Yasin Khan of Jamaat and Sheikh Mushtaq Ahmed of Khelafat Majlis UK chapter argue that only a “clean image” candidate can ensure victory in the religiously influential constituency. Local leaders warn that nominating a controversial figure could fracture grassroots unity. The alliance leadership faces mounting pressure to balance internal lobbying with public sentiment. Observers say the final choice in Sunamganj-3 will signal whether the coalition prioritizes strategic unity or electoral credibility.