Jamaat Ameer pledges cost-free higher education for women if elected

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Monday said that his party remains committed to empowering women and ensuring their dignity, responding to what he called attempts to “dishonour” Jamaat for advocating women’s rights.

Speaking at an election rally at Baharchhara in Cox’s Bazar Town, the Jamaat chief emphasised that, contrary to claims by opponents, the party values women highly and considers their welfare essential for national progress.

“If our party is voted into power in the upcoming 12 February election, women will be held in the highest regard in every sphere of life,” he said.

Highlighting the party’s women-focused initiatives, Dr Shafiqur Rahman announced that Jamaat would make higher education free for women, covering studies up to the master’s level.

“Education is the key to empowerment. A woman who is educated and skilled is not just an asset to her family, but to the entire nation,” he said.

The Jamaat Ameer also spoke about broader governance priorities. He said that if the Jamaat-led 11-party alliance forms the next government, it will work to ensure justice for all citizens, irrespective of religion, caste, or social standing.

“Every crime committed in the past can be forgiven,” he said, “except the atrocities committed by the Awami League regime during the July-August 2024 uprising. Those responsible must be held accountable.”

Dr Shafiqur Rahman stressed that his party’s governance approach would focus on fairness, transparency, and creating opportunities for women in education, employment and social participation.

He underlined women would not only receive education but also be given security and support in public spaces and workplaces.

Calling upon voters to participate actively in the election, the Jamaat Ameer urged citizens to consider policies and promises that strengthen justice, equality and national development.

The election rally also featured local Jamaat leaders and candidates of the 11-party alliance, who reiterated commitments to women’s empowerment and social justice as central pillars of their campaign.