Those unable to control own party's ranks cannot keep Bangladesh safe: Shafiqur

Any party – no matter how large – that cannot control its own ranks or ensure the safety of its activists cannot keep Bangladesh safe, Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has said.

Addressing an election rally in Jashore this morning (27 January) as the chief guest, the Jamaat chief said, "On one hand, they are promising family cards, and on the other, hands being laid on women – these two cannot go together. 

"This is the message: if they win, no one will be safe." 

He continued, "Before trying to build the country, build your own party properly. That will benefit the country and you as well. If you need our cooperation in this, we will provide it."

Calling for an end to what he described as "rotten politics of the past", he said genuine welfare-oriented politics must be established, adding that Bangladesh would move towards change if the 'Yes' vote won in a referendum. Criticising extortion and politically motivated cases, he urged voters to support the Scales symbol, claiming Jamaat leaders had not been involved in corruption or nepotism in the past.

Commenting on the July Charter referendum, to be held simultaneously with the general election on 12 February, Shafiqur said that despite outward appearances, a certain party is unhappy internally about it. 

"If the referendum is held, fascism will not be established. If the referendum is held, no one will be able to seize others' property. If the referendum is held, party-based extortion will not thrive. That is why some are dissatisfied with the referendum."

Claiming Jamaat to be the most oppressed political party, he said, "No matter how loudly others shout, it will not help. Gradually, [our] 11 top leaders were killed. Many held meetings with permission from the fascists. We did not seek permission; despite being oppressed, we protested wherever we could."

Referring to what he called harassment through "case trade" following the July Uprising, he said Jamaat neither wants to engage in such practices nor see it. 

The Jamaat ameer promised to build a syndicate-free Bangladesh if voted to power. 

"There will be no need for extortion; we will embrace extortionists and give them work. Those who led them astray will also be brought back to the right path," he added.

He also pledged to declare Jashore a city corporation if Jamaat comes to power.

Highlighting women's safety and facilities, he said special buses and washrooms would be arranged for mothers, and that everyone would enjoy the freedom to dress according to their own religion.