Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition in the National Parliament Shafiqur Rahman expressed deep concern on Saturday (Oct 25) over the prevailing environment surrounding upcoming local government elections, warning that intimidation tactics are already undermining the prospects of a credible and fair electoral process. Speaking at an interactive meeting with journalists at the Moon Hall of the Moulvibazar Circuit House at 11:00 am during an organizational visit, he asserted that holding polls under a climate of fear and partisan coercion would severely compromise transparency and public trust.
Elaborating on his party's electoral strategy, Rahman emphasized that Jamaat-e-Islami will insist on establishing a genuine level playing field before committing to any participation in local government polls. He stated that the party intends to clear all systemic obstacles beforehand and will only enter the electoral race once comprehensive guarantees of fairness are secured. Highlighting the fundamental rights of citizens, he reaffirmed that his party is committed to fighting for public empowerment so that the electorate can freely choose their leaders without outside interference.
Addressing governance and accountability, Rahman strongly rejected the notion that opposition parties should bear responsibility for the administration's missteps or recurring domestic crises. Questioning whether history would forgive passive complicity, he insisted that the opposition will not shoulder the blame for administrative failures, wrongdoings, or corruption perpetrated by the government. He also maintained a strict stance on internal discipline, declaring that his party does not tolerate wrongdoing within its own ranks and prioritizes principled governance above partisan interests, noting that corrupt individuals and extortionists invariably flee when their organizations face crisis.
Turning to domestic security, the opposition leader delivered a sharp critique of the administration's handling of law and order, specifically targeting the Ministry of Home Affairs. He remarked that the incumbent Home Minister appears preoccupied with matters outside his primary jurisdiction rather than focusing on his core ministerial responsibilities. Rahman pointed out that the government has failed to rein in narcotics trafficking, control illicit arms, or restore overall societal discipline, adding that there is no visible improvement in the state's law and order situation.
On a positive note, Rahman acknowledged the peaceful conclusion of the recent Durga Puja celebrations earlier in the week, noting that the festival wrapped up without major untiring incidents due to the collective vigilance of all active political parties in the country. He underscored that Bangladesh belongs to all its citizens, and individuals must be allowed to practice their religious rituals without hindrance or obstruction from any quarter.
