Jamaat in favour of elections by Feb or just after Ramadan: Ameer Shafiqur

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman said the national elections should be held in February 2026 or just after next Ramadan, not stretching beyond that period.

Briefing reporters after a meeting with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna this evening, Shafiqur said, "We have proposed two possible time frames – either in mid-February 2026, if all the reforms are done, or immediately after Ramadan if reforms take a bit longer."

He also said, "We have stated from our side that the government should announce two clear and specific roadmaps– for reform and the election."

Stating that his party previously raised demands regarding necessary reforms and justice, Shafiqur said, "If a bit more time is needed to complete the necessary reforms, then time can be extended up to after the next Ramadan. However, we are not in favour of extending the timeline beyond that."

A two-member delegation, led by Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman and Jamaat Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher, met Yunus in the State Guest House Jamuna at 8:04pm this evening (24 May) and concluded at around 9:30pm.

Talks with CA: BNP calls for swift completion of reforms for elections in Dec, removal of 'controversial' advisers

He further said, "For the past 16 years, the people of this country have been deprived of their right to vote. If elections are held after the necessary reforms, people will no longer be denied their voting rights."

The Jamaat chief further said in light of the unusual situation that has prevailed in the country over the past few days, the chief adviser expressed his dissatisfaction during the meeting of the Advisory Council. 

"This reflected a kind of uncertainty in the country. The chief adviser was displeased as two political parties were carrying out movements based on two separate demands," he added.

Now, much of that uncertainty and crisis has eased, Shafiqur said, adding, "This country belongs to everyone — if the country is well, all will be well."

Earlier, the Nayeb-e-Ameer said Jamaat believes the CA's resignation is not a solution and that the party wants the next election to be held under the leadership of Yunus.