Shafiqur unveils Jamaat's political and economic roadmap, promises future built on 'insaf'
Reiterating Jamaat’s stance on governance, Shafiqur promised a rigid stance against corruption, citing the party’s previous performance in government as evidence of its integrity.
Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman unveiled his party's political and economic roadmap today (20 January) for a "new and prosperous Bangladesh", promising a future built on "insaf" (justice).
Addressing a policy summit titled "Aspiring Bangladesh" at a hotel in Dhaka, the Jamaat chief spoke to diplomats, political leaders, civil society members, and business figures.
He framed the upcoming national election as a "historic crossroads" for a nation emerging from years of authoritarian governance and institutional decay.
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Reflecting on the July Uprising, Shafiqur noted that the youth were forced to reclaim their rights after nearly two decades of "fascist rule".
According to his address, Jamaat is placing democratic restoration, employment-driven growth, and a zero-tolerance policy against corruption at the forefront of his campaign for the national election scheduled to be held on 12 February.
The Jamaat ameer emphasised that the transition is currently fragile and that the primary national challenge has shifted from survival to ensuring long-term stability through deep-seated institutional reforms.
"With another national election approaching, we are here to present the policy and vision for the Bangladesh we aspire to build – one founded on justice, dignity, and shared prosperity," Shafiqur stated.
He argued that while political freedom was the goal of the 1971 Liberation War, the promise of social justice remains largely unfulfilled five decades later.
On the issue of gender, the Jamaat chief asserted that sustainable prosperity is impossible without the full participation of women.
"Expanding women's participation is not only a matter of justice; it is an economic necessity," he said, signalling a focus on inclusive economic engagement.
Criticising the economic landscape, the Jamaat leader pointed out that high GDP growth figures have historically failed to provide secure livelihoods for the masses.
He highlighted that inflation and unemployment are currently devastating day-to-day lives, with millions of citizens living on the edge of poverty.
He also acknowledged the role of migrant workers, saying their contribution extended beyond remittances. "They bring skills, experience and global exposure, and many are eager to contribute more to national development," he said.
The party's economic vision proposes treating employment as a core public policy priority rather than a mere by-product of investment.
This includes the gradual formalisation of the informal sector, enforceable labour rights, and a stronger link between the education system and the job market.
He further characterised social welfare not as charity, but as essential "social infrastructure".
Shafiqur identified Bangladesh's young workforce as its greatest asset and pledged to create an environment where they can "plan their lives with confidence".
Reiterating Jamaat's stance on governance, Shafiqur promised a rigid stance against corruption, citing the party's previous performance in government as evidence of its integrity.
He concluded by expressing confidence in a future built on "insaf" (justice), powered by the energy of the youth and the cooperation of international partners.
