United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Friday called upon the government to hold local government polls before the national election to demonstrate the Election Commission’s sincerity and capacity. “There is now an Election Commission in place, which claims it will deliver the best election in the country’s history. We want to an acid test from them. Hold local elections first and let us see your sincerity and capability,” he said while addressing a party conference in Mymensingh. He said people are suffering due to the absence of elected representatives in local government bodies. “So, hold the local polls first. Show your commitment and ability. If people are satisfied with that, they’ll support you fully in the future. But if irregularities are found, people will show you a red card.” Referring to a recently submitted report on women's affairs reform commission, Dr Shafiqur criticised certain recommendations as being contrary to the Quran and Sunnah. “Those who made these recommendations do not represent the 95 million mothers of this country. We will not allow them to take society in the wrong direction.” He urged the Chief Adviser to reject the report upon his return to the country and called for the formation of an inclusive commission comprising people from all classes, professions, and ideologies. 'Janata Party Bangladesh' launched under Ilias Kanchan’s leadership Besides, he stressed that Jamaat would not tolerate any move to benefit a particular party or group but would support all efforts aimed at benefiting the public. The Jamaat chief questioned, “If the past practices continue, what was the point of all the bloodshed and sacrifices? What will we say to the nation?” He said they are prepared to fight once again, if necessary, to build a corruption-free, injustice-free, and tyranny-free Bangladesh. Calling for a new political culture, he urged the youth to lead the change, saying, “Youth have always brought about transformation, including the movements of July and August.” They took to the streets to protect your dreams and aspirations. Don’t rest until the rightful demands are met, he said, adding, “You are tomorrow’s leaders, and we’ll work as your workers. We want to give you the opportunity to serve the country and its people.” Dr Shafiqur also alleged that the deposed Awami League, along with its allies and some government officials, had looted Tk 28 trillion from the country—four to five times the national budget. He urged the European Union and other foreign representatives to help recover the stolen money and return it to the public fund. “We want a Bangladesh where there is no discrimination based on political belief or religion. Everyone must enjoy equal rights,” he added. He reiterated Jamaat’s vision of a humane, corruption-free, and just Bangladesh based on Islamic principles and the Holy Quran, where people of all faiths can practice their religions freely. “Islam respects all religions. We are united in establishing humane governance—there is no division among us. Together, we will build the Bangladesh we envision.”

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman on Thursday accused the fallen Awami League (AL) of choosing murder and secret killings over ideological engagement to suppress political opposition. Speaking at a public gathering in Dhaka’s Ibrahimpur area under Kafrul, organized by Dhaka north city Jamaat, he alleged that the AL believed its oppressive rule would last indefinitely. “Instead of ideological confrontation, the AL government opted for killings and assassinations. They thought their misrule would remain unchallenged forever,” he said. The Jamaat Ameer emphasised that power belongs solely to Almighty Allah, who grants and withdraws it as He wills. No election before reform, Hasina’s trail: Jamaat Ameer Referring to political changes, he said, “We have witnessed how arrogance was shattered during the July Uprising. Despite Allah’s temporary respite for the oppressors, justice eventually prevails.” He urged party members and supporters to unite and work together to make their recent ‘victories’ meaningful and sustainable, and to continue the struggle for national liberation and public welfare. Rejecting allegations of having a hidden agenda, the Jamaat leader said, “Our only goal is to establish a just, peaceful, and discrimination-free society, as exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).” Justice must be served within 90 days in Magura case: Jamaat Ameer He reiterated Jamaat’s long-standing commitment to a justice-based political movement, saying, “We love our country, our land, and our people. Our politics is dedicated to their welfare and liberation.” Senior Jamaat leaders including Mohammad Selim Uddin, Laskar Mohammad Taslim, Mahfuzur Rahman, and Dr. Fakhruddin Manik were also present at the event.

Bangladeshis will not accept any election until two key demands are met—visible trial of Sheikh Hasina and essential political reforms, Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman said on Saturday. He made the remarks while addressing a public rally at the Lalmonirhat Collectorate Field. Calling for a level playing field to ensure free and fair elections, the Jamaat chief urged the Chief Adviser to resist polls influenced by “black money” and muscle power. He also emphasised maintaining diplomatic ties with India based on mutual respect, equality and good neighbourliness. “If we prosper, our neighbours will benefit too. But if our wellbeing is compromised, India must ask whether theirs can remain unaffected,” he added. Jamaat wants Dr Yunus' election promise fulfilled Dr Shafiqur said although fascism has fallen, some “ill-politicians” continue to extort and occupy property. He pledged that if Jamaat comes to power, women will be given respect, protection, and employment opportunities. Dr Shafiqur also promised to prioritise development in Lalmonirhat, including implementing the long-stalled Teesta Mega Plan. “We want a country free from the divisions of ‘supporter’ and ‘opponent’. We reject the notion of 'minority' and 'majority'. That rhetoric has long been used to oppress us. Now, men and women alike will help build this nation,” he said. “Youth will be empowered to become productive. Millions are now saying—they will sacrifice their lives, but not the country’s sovereignty. We did not fight West Pakistan only to be subjugated again. We want to live as citizens of a truly independent nation,” Dr Shafiqur added. The Jamaat leader also called for the establishment of an agricultural university and a local airport in Lalmonirhat to tackle unemployment in the region. Earlier in the day, party supporters from across Lalmonirhat and surrounding districts joined the rally in colourful processions, creating a festive atmosphere.

Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Wednesday called for the implementation of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus’ promise regarding the 13th parliamentary election. He made the remarks during a press briefing following a meeting with Nicole N Chulick, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the US Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, at a hotel in Dhaka’s Gulshan area. “We had a candid discussion with the US delegation. They wanted to know about the current political landscape in Bangladesh, when and how the next election would be held, and what kind of reforms all parties are demanding,” said Dr Shafiqur Rahman. He said the US delegation enquired about their economic policy and foreign relations if they are to assume responsibility for the country in the future. “We had an open exchange on these topics.” The Jamaat chief said the US officials also raised concerns about minority rights, women’s rights and labour issues — all of which were addressed during the meeting. He urged the US administration to reconsider the 37% tariff imposed on Bangladeshi goods amid the current complexities and critical juncture the nation is facing. “We’ve requested that they convey this appeal to President Trump,” he said. About democracy, Dr Shafiqur said, “We practise democracy within our own party and wish to see democratic practices flourish across the country. We are prepared to do what is necessary to ensure that.” BNP to attend talks with Consensus Commission Thursday When asked about the timing of the next election, Dr Shafiqur referred to a promise reportedly made by Dr Yunus. “The Chief Adviser has said the election will be held either by December this year or by June next year. We hope it will take place within that timeframe — preferably before Ramadan.” He expressed concern about the monsoon season, which may bring natural disasters and potentially disrupt the electoral process. “That is why we want the election held before such risks materialise,” he added. On the issue of justice, Dr Shafiqur said, “The nation is traumatised. Many are still in hospitals, disabled from violence. Families of the martyrs are still grieving. Justice for the Awami League’s actions must be ensured. We want proper trials and punishment.” Also present at the briefing were Jamaat Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Porwar, Central Executive Committee member Mobarak Hossain, and the Ameer’s foreign affairs adviser Professor Dr Mahmudul Hasan.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Saturday urged authorities to ensure justice within 90 days in a recent child murder case, emphasising that the verdict should not be delayed beyond that. “We want to see the trial completed, the verdict delivered and its implementation within 90 days...it should not exceed 91 days,” he said.  Dr Shafiqur made the remarks while visiting the grave of Achia Khatun, attending a prayer gathering, and meeting her family in Magura.  Speaking as the chief guest at a prayer event at Sonaikundi Government Primary School, he condemned the recent incident, calling it a disgrace to the nation. “This heinous act has left a stain on Bangladesh. In the past, many mothers and sisters suffered at the hands of such predators,” he said.  Criticising the culture of impunity, he said, “When people demand justice, they are arrested, but they never get to see justice being served. This lack of accountability encourages repeated crimes.”  Dr Shafiqur also questioned the enforcement of the death penalty for rape and murder, saying, “The maximum punishment for these crimes is death. But how many executions have we actually witnessed so far?”  Magura rape victim’s gayebana janaza held at DU He advocated for the implementation of Islamic law, arguing that it would ensure absolute justice. “If the laws of the Quran are enforced, justice will be served without oppression, and no oppressor will escape punishment,” he added.  He also mentioned that they do not just want to see a quick trial for this child’s murderers; they want to see the verdict executed. 

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has said that there is no ”majority or minority” in Bangladesh. “We are one nation. Our identity is that we are Bangladeshis. Anyone born in this country is a proud citizen of Bangladesh," he said on Wednesday while addressing a public rally organised by the party's district unit at Panchagarh Sugar Mill ground. He said the people of a country who cannot remain united cannot stand with their heads held high. He said, "Bangladesh is a country of harmony. I ask our Muslim brothers and sisters to be kind and not to hurt our brothers and sisters of other religions. we dislike it." Jamaat Ameer warns of unrest if elections held under current circumstances The Jamaat leader also criticised those who label groups of citizens as minorities, saying that they cause the most harm. "They inflict the greatest damage on the wealth, honour, and lives of our brothers." He called for the publication of a white paper on all the incidents that have occurred in Bangladesh from January 10, 1972, to the present, through a joint initiative between Bangladesh and the United Nations, so that people can know who really killed people, robbed them of their honor, and plundered their wealth. The Jamaat Ameer said, “India is our closest neighbour, and we have no intention of causing it any unnecessary harm.”

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Wednesday said that if elections are held under the current circumstances, there will be unrest and chaos, stressing the need for reforms to ensure a fair voting environment and restoring law and order. Addressing a roadside gathering organised by the Domar upazila Jamaat-e-Islami at the Upazila Parishad ground in Nilphamari on Wednesday, he said, “If elections are held under current conditions, it will be like burying the election.” He said that reforms are crucial to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process. On the issue of local government elections, the Jamaat Ameer criticised the absence of elected representatives in key local bodies, including union parishads, municipalities, upazilas, districts and city corporations, leading to public suffering. “Our politics is not about increasing people's hardships but reducing them,” he said, calling for the immediate holding of local government elections. Jatiya Biplobi Chatra Parishad demands ban on AL, issues 72hr ultimatum He stressed that the national election should only take place after essential reforms to restore credibility. He also spoke about corruption and extortion, claiming that despite leadership changes, these issues persist. “Businessmen tell us that extortionists used to collect money every month, but now they demand higher rates, saying they don't know how long they will stay in power, so they must loot as much as possible while they can,” he added. The Jamaat chief called for  a social movement against corruption and injustice, saying, “Wherever there is extortion, we must fight. Wherever there is occupation, we must resist. This struggle will continue because the country has not yet been freed from fascism after August 5.”

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has said the future Bangladesh will be built on justice and free from discrimination, ensuring people's right to express their opinions freely and enjoy their fair rights.  “We had been unjustly banned, and our leaders and activists subjected to inhumane torture. Even performing religious rituals had become difficult in a Muslim-majority country,” he said while speaking at a members' conference (rukon) organised by Sylhet District Jamaat on Sunday. He said that through the July uprising, a new Bangladesh free from tyranny had emerged and urged all to work together to build the nation. Ghulam Azam was victim of AL tyranny: Jamaat Ameer “This progress cannot be halted by creating divisions. If necessary, we must be prepared to make more sacrifices for the country and remain united against all forms of discrimination and injustice,” he added.  He emphasised the importance of balancing emotions with conscience, saying, “We may not have control over everything, but we must strive for the truth with all our abilities. Moderate emotion is a big strength.”  New party Democratic Power unveils itself The conference, held at an indoor venue in Sylhet city, was presided over by Sylhet District Ameer and Central Majlis-e-Shura member Maulana Habibur Rahman.  Central Executive Council member and Dhaka Metropolitan North Ameer Mohammad Selim Uddin, Central Working Committee member Prof Fazlur Rahman and District Secretary and former Upazila Chairman Md Joynal Abedin also addressed the event.  War against extortion, encroachment will continue: Jamaat Ameer  

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has claimed that former party chief Ghulam Azam died as a victim of oppression by the fallen Awami League government. Addressing a party rally in Narayanganj’s Osmani Municipal Stadium on Friday, he also criticised former local MP Shamim Osman, calling him a ‘godfather.’ Election environment not possible without reforms: Jamaat Ameer Shamim Osman put up a 72-foot-long banner in Narayanganj barring the entry of Ghulam Azam in the district when he was a lawmaker, he said. In the presence of the then deputy commissioner and superintendent of police, the godfather issued a threat to Ghulam Azam saying, ‘File a murder case against me in advance.’ But in the end, Ghulam Azam suffered and died under the tyranny of the fallen Awami League government, the Jamaat Ameer claimed. Jamaat pledges to honour student sacrifices: Dr Shafiqur Rahman He questioned where that godfather is today? He is no longer in Narayanganj. Narayanganj district and metropolitan units of Jamaat-e-Islami organized the rally for the first time since the fall of the Awami League on August 5 last year. Chaired by Narayanganj city Jamaat Ameer Muhammad Abdul Jabbar, Jamaat Assistant Secretary General Maulana Abdul Halim, Central Executive Council member Saiful Alam Khan Milon (Dhaka South), Chhatra Shibir President Zahidul Islam, Dhaka South Jamaat Ameer Nurul Islam Bulbul, Dhaka North Jamaat Ameer Selim Uddin, and Jamaat Central Executive member Mobarak Hossain, among others spoke at the rally.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has said that a congenial election environment cannot be ensured without minimum reforms. "A fair election is necessary where every citizen can exercise their voting rights," he said after inspecting flood-affected areas at Kalikapur village in Mirzanagar union along Muhuri River and Ballamukhar Dam in Parshuram upazila on Monday. Jamaat pledges to honour student sacrifices: Dr Shafiqur Rahman Dr Shafiqur urged all conscientious people to support the families of martyrs and those injured during the July movement. "Just as we owe a debt to our martyrs, we are also indebted to expatriates for their role in the country's transformation," he added. Highlighting corruption in embankment projects, the Jamaat chief said, "The repeated collapse of embankments is due to widespread corruption. If there were no corruption, why would we need to allocate a budget for embankment construction every year?" He also criticised the lack of scientific methods in embankment construction. About the situation at Ballamukhar Dam, he said, "This embankment lies on the border between two countries. The eroded section falls within India's no-man’s land, causing significant damage to our territory. A permanent solution with India is necessary, and sustainable embankments must be built." Later, speaking at a roadside gathering organised by the Parshuram upazila and municipality Jamaat near Sonali Bank in Parshuram, Dr Shafiqur said, "Everyone is well—may Allah keep everyone well. But after August 5, India imposed severe hardship on Bangladesh, leading to devastating floods in Parshuram, Feni, Noakhali and Lakshmipur. The common people suffered immensely." He assured that he would discuss with the government ways to ensure lasting peace for the people of Feni and permanent repairs for the embankments. "Only under the rule of the Quran can true justice be achieved. Jamaat is working towards establishing Quranic governance. If the law of the Quran is implemented, there will be no discrimination—everyone will receive justice, and the people will live in safety," the Jamaat leader said. "The people of this country lack both dignity and security. If we can establish a state based on the Quran, we will govern according to its laws," he added. People won’t vote for looters in next election: Jamaat Nayeb-e-Ameer Jamaat's central Assistant Secretary General ATM Masum, Assistant Secretary of Dhaka North city Dr Fakhruddin Manik and Feni district Jamaat Ameer Mufti Abdul Hannan were, among others, present.