Leader of the Opposition and Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Thursday expressed hope that the newly formed parliament would develop into a dynamic and effective institution dedicated to justice and public welfare.
Speaking in the House while congratulating the newly elected Speaker, he thanked the voters of his constituency and people across the country for electing their representatives through the ballot.
At the beginning of his remarks, Shafiqur Rahman expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah and paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in various political and democratic struggles, including the movements of 1947, 1952 and the 1971 Liberation War.
He also remembered those killed at Shapla Chattar and individuals who faced persecution during what he described as the “fascist period.”
The Jamaat leader further honoured those who took part in the July 24 movement, saying their sacrifices played a significant role in the formation of the present parliament. He offered prayers for the deceased and wished recovery for those who were injured or oppressed during the struggles.
According to him, the current parliament is not an ordinary one but is built upon the sacrifices and bloodshed of many people who fought for democratic rights.
Congratulating both the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker, Shafiqur Rahman expressed confidence that they would perform their responsibilities with fairness and impartiality.
He noted that although more than five decades have passed since independence, parliamentary democracy had functioned effectively only during limited periods. Whenever the parliament worked properly, people benefited, he said, adding that at other times it had fallen under authoritarian influences and became ineffective.
Referring to the Speaker’s decision to resign from his party position to maintain neutrality, the opposition leader said the move had created confidence among lawmakers that both treasury and opposition benches would be treated equally.
Shafiqur Rahman expressed optimism that the parliament would become active and constructive under the Speaker’s leadership. He also pointed out that a number of young lawmakers have entered parliament this time and said they would gain valuable experience by learning from senior members.
He urged MPs to focus parliamentary discussions on issues that benefit the people rather than engaging in personal criticism or character attacks, which he said had often dominated debates in previous parliaments.
“The parliament should never become a platform for defaming individuals,” he said, adding that meaningful discussions and constructive debate should guide parliamentary proceedings.
The Jamaat chief also assured the Speaker of his party’s full cooperation in ensuring the smooth functioning of the House.
Emphasising the importance of parliament in the state structure, he said it is one of the three key pillars of governance and that the proper functioning of this institution would help other state institutions operate effectively as well.
Recalling the aspirations that emerged from the July movement, Shafiqur Rahman said people’s foremost demand was justice.
He expressed hope that the parliament would play a decisive role in addressing political, economic and social injustices in the country.
He concluded his remarks by wishing the Speaker good health and success in leading the House in a fair and effective manner.
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