Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Friday said his party is committed to building an inclusive and discrimination-free Bangladesh by ending dynastic politics and promoting leadership based on merit and capability.
Addressing an election rally organised by Feni District Jamaat-e-Islami at the Feni Government Pilot High School ground, he said Jamaat seeks to dismantle the long-standing culture of inherited power.
“We want to end the system where power is passed from father to son. In the Bangladesh we envision, even the child of a rickshaw puller can become prime minister if he or she is qualified,” he said.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman said years of corrupt political practices had paved the way for authoritarianism and widespread corruption. Emphasising reform, he said Jamaat aims to “give corrupt politics a red card” and work towards rebuilding the country on ethical foundations.
Rejecting the idea of unemployment allowances, he said Jamaat believes sustainable employment is the true path to dignity. “Our goal is not handouts, but jobs with honour,” he added.
Speaking on women’s rights, the Jamaat Ameer said women must be respected both in family life and in professional spaces. He also pledged greater recognition and dignity for Islamic scholars and Qawmi madrasa education if Jamaat comes to power.
He accused the Awami League of establishing prolonged misrule over the last 16 years, citing incidents such as the Pilkhana tragedy, killings of political activists, and persecution of religious scholars. According to him, the July Uprising marked the end of that era.
Recalling last year’s devastating floods in Feni, Dr Shafiqur Rahman mentioned Abrar Fahad, urging residents to honour his memory for speaking out on issues concerning the Feni River.
Outlining development plans, he said Jamaat would establish government medical colleges in 31 districts, including Feni, build specialised hospitals, construct dams along the Feni River, and develop a modern stadium in the district if elected.
Calling for political unity, he urged candidates of the 11-party alliance in Feni’s three constituencies to work collectively to ensure victory in the upcoming election and to help build a “new Bangladesh.”
He also appealed to voters to cast a ‘yes’ vote in the referendum.
The rally was also addressed by Jamaat-e-Islami Assistant Secretary General Maulana ATM Masum, Central Majlis-e-Sura Member Professor Liaquat Ali Bhuiyan, AB Party Chairman and 11-party alliance candidate for Feni-2 (Sadar) Mujibur Rahman Manju, and Jatiya Ganatantrik Party (JAGPA) President Rashed Prodhan.
Following the programme, Dr Shafiqur Rahman met with July fighters and families of martyrs, and formally handed over party symbols to Jamaat-backed candidates contesting the three Feni constituencies.
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