Shafiqur Rahman, the Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has called for an end to the politics of hatred and division, urging for national unity. He made this appeal during a meeting with media representatives on Wednesday at the Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka.
Addressing editors, chief executives, news editors, and senior journalists from various print and electronic media, he said, “We want to bury the politics of hatred. It must not be allowed to grow any further. We also want to put an end to the politics of division.”
Highlighting that Jamaat-e-Islami does not support dividing the nation on any issue, the Jamaat Ameer stated, “In all situations, we want the nation to remain united.” He also emphasized the need for harmony and collective progress in the country.
Regarding the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing, Chhatra Shibir, on August 1, Shafiqur Rahman claimed that the ban was imposed deliberately to divert attention from the anti-government movement. He said, “Some wanted Jamaat-e-Islami to react with full force if something like this happened. Then, something else would occur around it. The movement’s direction would change… chaos would be created.”
He argued that the ban was implemented to divert attention from the movement, suggesting that such measures might be intended to suppress one issue by overshadowing it with another, thereby hindering dissent.
The Jamaat leader also stated that his party holds no animosity towards anyone and has “forgiven everyone.” However, he emphasized that those who have committed specific crimes must be held accountable; otherwise, there would be no correction in society. Criminals would become more reckless and go beyond control.
Shafiqur Rahman also criticized the practice of making sweeping allegations, particularly citing a murder case where 500 people were accused. He argued that mass accusations could provide an opportunity for the real culprits to escape justice. He said, “There is no need for so many cases. A few symbolic incidents are enough to reform people.” He stressed the importance of ensuring that no innocent person is falsely accused.
Referring to the role of neighboring countries, the Jamaat Ameer called for dignified relations based on mutual respect. He stated, “We want everyone to live as respectful neighbors. This is our position, not just for India but for everyone. Help us as friends, but do not try to impose your will. Let our people make their own decisions… We seek friendship and cooperation from everyone.”
On the issue of press freedom, Shafiqur Rahman assured the journalists of a free and fair working environment. He said, “I am making this commitment on behalf of the party. You can keep this on record.”
Also present at the event were Jamaat’s Nayeb-e-Ameer Professor Mujibur Rahman, Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher, Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Parwar, Assistant Secretary General Rafiqul Islam Khan, and Hamidur Rahman Azad, along with other senior Jamaat leaders.
