Dhaka: By Staff Writer
In a historic display of support, Bangladesh’s largest Islamic party, Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), held its first-ever solo grand rally in Dhaka on Saturday, drawing tens of thousands of supporters from across the country. The event, seen as a turning point in the nation’s shifting political landscape, marked Jamaat’s return to the mainstream after years of political marginalization under the Awami League.
A New Dawn After Political Suppression
The rally, held at Suhrawardy Udyan, came months after the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League-led government. Jamaat, once banned and politically sidelined, has re-emerged as a major force in national politics, emboldened by the interim government’s decision to lift the ban imposed during Hasina’s tenure.
Chaired by party Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman, the gathering was charged with emotion and energy as Rahman addressed the crowd, declaring that Jamaat had played a “crucial role” in dismantling fascism in Bangladesh.
“We Seek Martyrdom for a Just Society”
In a speech that resonated with calls for justice and Islamic values, Dr Rahman warned of continued struggle ahead. “Bangladesh might witness further confrontation in the path to righteousness,” he said, adding, “May Allah accept me as a martyr in the struggle to build a just country.”
Despite collapsing twice during his address due to poor health, the 66-year-old leader insisted on completing his speech, stating, “My life and death are in Allah’s hands.” Party members later confirmed that doctors had advised him not to speak due to exhaustion.
Demands for Accountability and Justice
In a direct reference to past political atrocities, Dr Rahman called for a public trial of those responsible for events such as the 2009 BDR massacre and the July 2024 crackdown, which he referred to as the “2024 genocide.”
“The visible process of justice must begin. Until then, Bangladesh cannot progress under the current system,” he asserted, demanding a new constitution to ensure justice, equity, and security for all citizens.
Political Vision: Ending Corruption, Embracing Proportional Representation
With a focus on transparency, Dr Rahman pledged that if Jamaat came to power, no lawmaker or minister would enjoy personal benefits like free government plots or tax-exempt vehicles. He also declared a future movement against corruption and extortion, framing it as a national moral obligation.
The rally also spotlighted Jamaat’s push for a proportional representation (PR) electoral system, which the party believes would ensure fairer political participation. Senior leader Abdullah Mohammad Taher emphasized that PR is best suited to Bangladesh’s current socio-political context.
Broad Coalition of Islamic and Reformist Parties
The rally saw participation from various political entities, including Islami Andolan, Gono Odhikar Parishad, and representatives of Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis. From the National Citizen Party (NCP), prominent figures like Akhtar Hossain, Ariful Islam Adeeb, and Sarjis Alam attended in solidarity.
A Movement Rooted in Faith, Aspiring for National Reform
The rally’s overarching message reflected Jamaat-e-Islami’s core commitment to Islamic principles, social justice, and democratic reform. With a seven-point electoral agenda and a bold promise of integrity in governance, the party signaled its intention to lead Bangladesh towards a more moral and equitable future.
In the eyes of its supporters, Jamaat is not just reviving political ambition—it is restoring hope for a system grounded in faith, fairness, and freedom. ST
