Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Monday said that state responsibility is a sacred trust (amanat) and should not be treated as a matter of personal enjoyment.

“We must always remember that we are all accountable and will be questioned about our responsibilities,” he said in a televised address on Bangladesh Television ahead of the 12 February national elections.

Referring to a famous quote by Hazrat Omar (RA), Dr Rahman said “Even if a dog dies on the banks of the Euphrates without eating, I will be responsible for it,” to capture what will be his governing style. The party remains committed, as commanded by Allah, to establishing justice, InshaAllah, he said.

He expressed optimism that people will trust in their promise and vision and support Jamaat-e-Islami and its 11-party alliance in the upcoming elections.

“Allah has given us a great opportunity for change. Let us use it wisely, leave behind the politics of the past, and build a new Bangladesh where everyone can live with respect and dignity,” he said.

Dr Rahman paid tribute to the martyrs of the July uprising and the Liberation War, and prayed for those injured during these movements. Describing July as a collective outcry against injustice, he said: “People from all walks of life united. We do not want another July. We want a Bangladesh where citizens never have to take to the streets to demand their rights.”

He said the youth have the courage, talent, and technological skills needed to build a new Bangladesh. “They are hardworking, fearless, committed to truth, and ready to move the country forward,” he said, urging society to create opportunities that allow young people to contribute meaningfully.

Addressing the youth, he added they want to stand shoulder to shoulder in the work of building the nation.

The Jamaat Ameer emphasised that national unity is a responsibility, not just a slogan, warning that division weakens the country and deepens injustice.

He criticised what he described as the erosion of democratic practices and the concentration of power over the past decade, claiming citizens were deprived of their voting rights through flawed elections. “When people lose their right to vote, they lose their voice,” he said, referring to the 2014, 2018, and 2024 elections. He added that misuse of state institutions, lack of accountability, and suppression of dissent have undermined democratic norms and public confidence.

Dr Rahman also stressed that women’s safety and dignity are essential for national progress. “A society that fails to protect women can never truly advance,” he said, pledging equal opportunities and meaningful participation for women in all sectors.

He reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the rights of religious and ethnic minorities, saying all citizens must feel secure regardless of faith or background. “Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, and Christians—all are citizens of this country, and their rights will be safeguarded,” he added.

Addressing members of Tablighi Jamaat, he urged them to actively contribute to nation-building, just as they serve their faith.

“We promise that in the future, no one will be able to oppress you with labels or carry out extrajudicial killings. We recognise that your human rights were neglected in the past. Changing this will be a key goal of the new Bangladesh. Your role and contribution to national policies and systems will be strengthened,” he added.

Regarding foreign policy, Dr Rahman said Bangladesh would pursue balanced diplomacy based on mutual respect while protecting national sovereignty. He also highlighted the challenges of climate change and reiterated continued humanitarian efforts for Rohingya refugees, alongside diplomatic initiatives for their safe repatriation.

He said the country would build international relationships based on equality and respect, honouring the territorial integrity of all nations while prioritising friendship. “Our national interests, dignity, and development goals will guide our international engagements,” he said.

Dr Rahman praised expatriate workers for their role in the July uprising, saying: “Even from thousands of miles away, you played a vital role and endured hardships. You have already made history by exercising your voting rights. Without your active participation, our vision of a new Bangladesh will remain incomplete.”

He announced plans to hold volunteer representative elections to liaise with embassies and high commissions, advocating for expatriates’ rights and ensuring their voices are heard. “These representatives will safeguard your interests and enable effective participation in national development,” he said.

Dr Rahman stressed the need for structural reforms in various sectors and state institutions. To ensure the continuation of these reforms, a referendum will be held alongside the parliamentary elections.

He urged citizens to vote ‘Yes’ in this referendum, describing it as an important opportunity to express the general will of the people.