Amir Hamza's remarks 'planned and intentional', says Abdul Kader
“When such a person criticises universities like Dhaka University and Jahangirnagar University and their students, it naturally fuels negative perceptions among the general public about universities,” he says
Islamic preacher Amir Hamza's recent remarks on university students were "very much planned and intentional", Abdul Kader, convener of Bangladesh Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad, said today (21 September).
In a Facebook post, Kader wrote, "Amir Hamza is among the few popular preachers in the country who enjoys acceptance both in rural areas and among the youth, drawing large crowds at his sermons.
"When such a person criticises universities like Dhaka University and Jahangirnagar University and their students, it naturally fuels negative perceptions among the general public about universities," he said.
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He added, "When Hamza's criticisms revolve around sensitive religious issues such as Azan, prayers, and alcohol consumption, they deeply hurt the sentiments of devout Muslims and reinforce ingrained ideas against universities."
Kader, a known figure in the July Uprising, alleged that religious sentiments have often been exploited ahead of elections to sway public opinion.
Hamza, in his controversial remarks circulating on social media, claimed that he was once admitted to the Journalism and Media Studies Department and witnessed "students in residential halls gargling with alcohol in the morning." He also alleged that students assaulted teachers with sticks.
Referring to Hamza's recent comments on the "16-year fascist rule" at Dhaka University, Kader said, "Everyone knows what role Amir Hamza himself played during that period."
He also urged preachers to uphold truth and integrity, saying, "There is no real success in lies or trickery. At least our preachers should preserve this principle. We aspire to establish a healthy and decent political culture."
