No corruption means Bangladesh can advance at rocket speed: Shafiqur at Natore rally

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman today (5 February) said the country could advance "at rocket speed" if corruption and plunder were eliminated.

Addressing an election rally at the Nawab Siraj-ud-Daula Government College ground in Natore, he urged voters to cast their first vote on February 12 in favour of "Yes" to establish good governance.

He said people of all faiths – Hindus, Buddhists, Christians and Muslims – were "flowers of the same garden" and would not be deprived of their rights under a just system.

"If corruption and plunder are stopped, Bangladesh will move forward at rocket speed," he said.

Shafiqur Rahman said the country's youth were demanding a new political culture and a "new Bangladesh," adding that young voters would support the "Yes" vote, while those clinging to what he described as "rotten politics" wanted to drag the country backward.

He claimed that if Jamaat-e-Islami came to power through people's votes, justice would be ensured without discrimination. 

"Whether an ordinary citizen or the prime minister or president - anyone involved in corruption and plunder will be brought to justice," he said.

Referring to past protest movements, Shafiqur said student demonstrations that began over quota reform later evolved into a broader movement that led to the fall of the government, following the loss of lives and widespread public participation.

He alleged that after the government's fall, new groups took control of extortion networks, stressing that people no longer wanted terrorism, extortion or plunder. 

"On 12 February, people will show a red card to those involved in these crimes," he said.

Outlining Jamaat's vision, Shafiqur Rahman said the party aimed to build a peaceful and inclusive society, ensuring women's safety and dignity at all times. 

He said Jamaat would focus on creating employment through education and skills development rather than providing unemployment allowances. 

He also pledged that a Jamaat-led government would ensure healthcare for all children under five and citizens aged over 65, and reduce dependence on overseas medical treatment by establishing a medical college in each of the country's 64 districts, along with specialised hospitals where needed.

Claiming a nationwide surge in support for the 11-party alliance, he said women were increasingly participating in political activities and rallies. 

He urged citizens and students to remain steadfast until the election results are announced after 12 February.

The rally was chaired by Natore district Jamaat Ameer Professor Dr Mir Nurul Islam and conducted by General Secretary Professor Md Sadequr Rahman. Several central and alliance leaders also spoke on the occasion.

Earlier, Shafiqur Rahman addressed election rallies in Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj and Naogaon.