Lack of Reform Roadmap Deepens Public Doubts: Jamaat Ameer

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Saturday expressed concern over the absence of a clear roadmap for political reforms and the forthcoming national elections, saying it has deepened public doubts and mistrust.

“We are demanding a clear and transparent roadmap from the government to restore people’s confidence,” he said while addressing the party’s Central Majlis-e-Shura biannual meeting at Al-Falah Auditorium in Moghbazar, Dhaka.

Calling for justice over past political repression, he said, “We also demand a fair trial of fascism. Though this process is lengthy, visible progress is essential to assure the nation.”

Dr Shafiqur Rahman referred to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus’s earlier commitment to holding national elections between December this year and June next year. “We trust the Chief Adviser’s intentions and are ready to extend all cooperation to ensure fair polls,” he noted.

He reiterated Jamaat’s commitment to national welfare, saying, “Our politics centre on the people’s interests. Jamaat has always prioritised public welfare.”

Criticising the credibility of past elections, the Jamaat chief said, “The uncontested 2014 election, the midnight voting in 2018, and the farcical 2024 polls with dummy candidates have all made a mockery of democracy. A free and fair election is now crucial for the country's future.”

Speaking about the role of the armed forces, he said, “The army is the pride of the nation. The people expect them to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty with dignity and dedication.”

On international issues, he urged the global community to act decisively. “Palestinians have suffered decades of oppression. The UN must not only seek a ceasefire but work toward a permanent end to the war,” he said.

Regarding the situation in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, he called for the dignified and secure repatriation of Rohingya refugees. “The United Nations must take greater responsibility in this regard.”

He concluded by urging Jamaat leaders and activists to act responsibly, remain vigilant, and uphold discipline during these politically sensitive times.

Prominent Jamaat leaders including Nayeb-e-Ameer Prof Mujibur Rahman, D Syed Abdullah Md Taher, Acting Secretary General Maulana ATM Masum, and Assistant Secretary General Mawlana Rafiqul Islam Khan also addressed the meeting, alongside Dr AHM Hamidur Rahman Azad and members of the Central Majlis-e-Shura.