Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, remarked that by killing their lawyer in Chittagong, the perpetrators were attempting to manipulate the situation for their own violent agenda. However, he praised the people of Bengal for showing patience and wisdom in response, “The people have shown intelligence and resilience, putting lime on the faces of those who sought conflict.”
Dr. Shafiqur made these comments at a workers' conference held at Cumilla's Town Hall Ground on Friday afternoon.
"We are ready to give our lives, but we will not relinquish an inch of Bangladesh’s land," Dr. Shafiqur declared, emphasizing their commitment to building a Bangladesh based on equality, love, and non-violent unity. "People of all religions and castes must coexist peacefully. Bangladesh belongs to all its citizens, and no one, whether majority or minority, should claim exclusive ownership," he stated. He also criticized the term "minority," suggesting it was being misused by external forces to advance their own interests.
Dr. Shafiqur praised the Hindu students from Jagannath University who stood against the false propaganda spread by some media in India. “This proves that the country belongs to all of us. We do not interfere in India's internal affairs, but they continue to spread lies about us,” he said.
The Jamaat Ameer also spoke about the state of freedom in Bangladesh, thanking those who sacrificed their lives for independence. He condemned the Awami League’s fascist rule, accusing them of implementing a reign of terror, disappearances, and murders. He pointed out the 2009 BDR mutiny, which led to the deaths of 57 patriotic army officers, as a tragic example of the regime’s cruelty. “Our leaders have been killed through conspiracy. The nation demands justice for every victim, including those of the 2024 genocide. Justice must be delivered through the law,” he stated.
Dr. Shafiqur called for elections to be held at a reasonable time after necessary reforms. "We need leadership free from the stigma of terrorism and extortion. Transparent elections should be conducted to create a clean and accountable leadership," he emphasized.
He also warned against leaders using violence and exploitation to maintain power. "I urge future leaders not to come to power with sticks and guns. The people of this country reject such exploitative systems. We want to serve the people, and may Allah guide us in that mission."
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman concluded by expressing a commitment to honor the sacrifices made for the country’s freedom. “We owe a debt to those who shed their blood for this nation. May Allah grant us the opportunity to repay that debt,” he added.
Dr. Shafiqur also highlighted the unmet demands of the people of Comilla, particularly the establishment of Comilla Division and the construction of Comilla Airport. He addressed the media, saying, "You are free now. If we or our colleagues make any mistakes, bring them to light for the nation. Constructive criticism is vital for progress."
The Jamaat-e-Islami workers' conference in Cumilla, held for the first time in 19 years, saw a massive turnout. Key city areas, including Kandirpar, Tomcham Bridge Road, Zilla School Road, and others, were filled with activists chanting slogans. Separate pandals were also set up for women activists at the Cumilla Central Eidgah Ground.
Speakers at the conference included Quazi Deen Mohammad, Ameer of Cumilla Metropolis, and Central Nayeb e Ameer Dr. Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher. The event was also attended by notable Jamaat leaders, including Maulana ATM Masum, Maulana Abdul Halim, Muhammad Abdur Rab, Advocate Jasim Uddin Sarker, and others.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
