Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Monday vowed to develop Cox’s Bazar into an international-standard tourist destination by promoting good governance, justice and eliminating corruption.
Speaking at an election rally at Baharchara Gol Chottor, he said, “Cox’s Bazar has enormous potential to become a world-class tourist hub, yet it has lagged behind global destinations like Singapore and Shanghai due to corrupt and inefficient systems controlling the area.”
Dr Shafiqur Rahman described the upcoming election as a historic opportunity to restructure the state and break away from a political culture that allowed mismanagement and authoritarianism to flourish.
“This election is not just another poll - it is a chance to pave the way for a modern, prosperous Bangladesh,” he said.
Highlighting development plans for Cox’s Bazar, the Jamaat Ameer said government offices would function professionally and impartially, and local infrastructure would be upgraded.
“We will modernise the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar highway into six lanes to ensure smooth connectivity for tourists and locals alike,” he added.
He also pledged to establish a standard university in Cox’s Bazar and expand education and employment opportunities for the youth, ensuring a skilled workforce to support tourism and allied sectors.
On women’s empowerment, Dr Shafiqur Rahman said they would receive full security and educational support, emphasising that these initiatives are part of ensuring inclusive development in the region.
Calling on voters to support the candidates of the 11-party alliance, he expressed confidence that the people’s verdict would help Cox’s Bazar achieve its full potential as a global tourist destination.
Cox’s Bazar District Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Abdullah Al Farook has been nominated as the candidate for the Cox’s Bazar-1 constituency by the Jamaat-led alliance.
Speaking at the rally, he reiterated the promise to dismantle syndicate systems and ensure justice-based governance, which would facilitate large-scale tourism development in the district.
“We want to transform Cox’s Bazar into a safe, attractive and internationally competitive tourist destination, creating jobs and prosperity for the people while preserving its natural beauty,” he added.