Jamaat ameer seeks 'Yes' vote in referendum, support in election to build 'New Bangladesh'

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has called on voters to cast a "Yes" vote in the referendum and support Jamaat-e-Islami and the 11-party alliance in the upcoming national election, describing the polls as a historic opportunity to build a "New Bangladesh".

In a televised address to the nation on Bangladesh Television this evening (9 February), ahead of the 12 February election and referendum, Shafiqur said the votes would help give constitutional and permanent footing to state reform initiatives.

Speaking on state reforms, the Jamaat chief said, "The post-July government had taken some structural reform initiatives, but many plans remained either unimplemented or at an early stage."

To make these reforms permanent and constitutionally grounded, the government has arranged a referendum alongside the national election, he said, urging citizens to vote "Yes" in referendum.

Calling the election an opportunity to reshape the state, Shafiqur Rahman sought public support for Jamaat and 11-party alliance candidates, saying, "State responsibility is a trust. We are committed to governing the country based on justice and accountability."

He said Jamaat had organised policy summits to ensure public participation in policymaking and that the party's election manifesto reflected opinions gathered from local and international experts, as well as people from different sections of society.

On corruption, Shafiqur alleged that the past regime had used state resources and institutions for partisan and personal interests, turning development projects into avenues for plunder.

"Ending this system is our primary goal," he said, adding that Jamaat's past representatives had never been accused of corruption.

Addressing women's rights, he said no society can prosper without ensuring women's dignity and safety. He pledged that women would have equal respect and leadership opportunities both in public life and state governance if Jamaat comes to power.

On minority and human rights issues, Shafiqur said Bangladesh belongs to all citizens, regardless of religion, and vowed to resist any attempt to persecute people based on religious identity.

He also outlined plans for a foreign policy based on mutual respect, stronger diplomatic efforts to address climate change, and initiatives to ensure the safe repatriation of Rohingya refugees.

"Jamaat will work to ensure parliamentary representation and state recognition for expatriate Bangladeshis," he added.