Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Thursday said that the party envisions a Bangladesh free from extortion and filled with justice for the youth, emphasising the importance of a corruption-free and fair society led by the younger generation.
“We dream of building a Bangladesh free from extortion and filled with justice and fairness, and it's because of the youth that we have the opportunity to speak out against extortionists,” he said while addressing a public rally in Karwan Bazar, Dhaka-12, organised by the 11-party electoral alliance.
The Jamaat Ameer said the youth would not tolerate anyone becoming involved in extortion, land grabbing, or criminal activities.
“We will not allow anyone to turn our youth into extortionists or criminals. Instead, we will guide their hands to become skilled workers. It is the youth who will build the future of Bangladesh,” he added.
Criticising extortionist politicians, Dr Shafiqur Rahman questioned the relationship between politics and extortion, labelling it as nothing more than criminality.
“Politics should be about principles. Why should there be extortion? We won’t just send law enforcement agencies to deal with extortion, we will be on the frontlines ourselves,” he added.
The Jamaat Ameer again said, “We do not want inequality. We must establish justice, bring equality, and put an end to corruption and extortion that harm the common people.”
He praised the people of Karwan Bazar for their brave stand against extortionists on 28 January, urging people across the country to follow their example.
“If we are elected on 12 February, we guarantee the elimination of all extortionists. We will make sure that from 13 February, extortion will end in Bangladesh. We will be relentless and uncompromising in freeing the country from extortion,” he said.
Referring to the historical movements, including the 1971 Liberation War and the 2024 student-led mass uprising, Dr Shafiqur Rahman expressed hope that the youth would continue to lead the country towards a better future, just as they had in the past.
Addressing the issue of unfair market practices, he said extortion and syndicates were causing immense harm to farmers and consumers.
“Farmers are not getting the fair price for their products. By the time goods reach Dhaka, the price has tripled due to extortion. We must eliminate this system,” he said.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman urged the Election Commission to ensure a free and fair election, criticising the current election environment as unfavourable.
“You promised the best election in history, but the people are not reassured yet. Take appropriate action to gain their trust. If you fail, you will be held responsible,” he said.
.jpg "Former minister, Awami League leader Tofail Ahmed dies")
