Completely fair and proper election not yet in sight: Jamaat
Taher said Jamaat had altered its stance on some issues through discussion and consensus
Political parties are anxious due to the lack of a definite date or roadmap for the election, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami's Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher has said.
"I urge the National Consensus Commission to reach an agreement soon without delay," he said during the second phase of talks between Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh and the National Consensus Commission at the LED Hall of the National Parliament today (18 May).
During the talks, the Jamaat ameer said the party is approaching electoral reforms not from a partisan viewpoint but in the interest of the country and its people.
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"We are not considering the reform process from a party perspective, but in the national interest and for the welfare of all," Taher said. "Whenever we realise that any of our positions or thoughts can be improved for the benefit of the country, we bring about change. Our goal is national achievement, not party gain."
He said Jamaat had altered its stance on some issues through discussion and consensus.
"Based on discussions, we have changed our stance where necessary and reached a consensus on matters considered best."
Addressing the upcoming national election, Taher expressed concern over its fairness.
"A completely fair and proper election is not yet in sight. We are seeing various problems. A few days ago, there was an arson attack and assault at the Jamaat office in Pabna's Atgharia area. The election date has not even been announced, but already there is competition for occupying areas."
He alleged that certain incidents seemed part of a broader attempt to create instability.
"Many are analysing that these events are part of a conspiracy to destabilise the country. We strongly condemn such conspiracies."
Urging the authorities to act decisively, Taher said, "Our request to the government is to handle the situation with firmness and responsibility. Jamaat-e-Islami will support all positive initiatives by the government."
Taher emphasised that the reform committees' efforts are focused on ensuring a credible election.
"Our main goal is for the election to be free, fair, neutral and free from violence. The farcical nature of the last three elections has brought us to where we are today. A fully acceptable election is the way forward for Bangladesh."
He noted the absence of a clear election timeline is contributing to uncertainty.
Taher called for a final decision that considers all factors crucial for political stability.
"Once that is done, the election should be held as soon as possible."
Addressing the chairman of the Electoral Reform Commission, he said, "We must establish a system that ensures elections are fair and accurate. Whatever needs to be done—if firmness is required—it must be applied. The elections must be fair, neutral and acceptable."
He also raised concerns about the Election Commission's role.
"In some cases, the Commission seems unable to make appropriate decisions. I request the government to look into this."
Taher stressed the need for early measures to ensure a level playing field.
"Normalising the situation must begin well before the election. Preventative steps should be taken in areas where signs of violence or attacks are evident."
He concluded by calling for impartiality from the government.
"There appears to be a lack of neutrality or efficiency in some of the government's actions. I urge the government to address this."
The meeting was moderated by Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser Monir Haider. Present were National Consensus Commission Vice-Chairman Professor Ali Riaz, members Safar Raj Hossain, Justice Emdadul Haq, Badiul Alam Majumdar, and Iftekharuzzaman.
The Jamaat delegation, led by Taher, included Acting Secretary ATM Masum, Assistant Secretary General Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan, Hamidur Rahman Azad, Advocate Ehsanul Mahbub Zubayer, Saifur Alam Khan Milon, Advocate Matiur Rahman Akand, and Advocate Mohammad Shishir Monir.
This round of dialogue is part of the commission's ongoing efforts to build a national consensus around the recommendations of five reform commissions.
As part of this initiative, the commission has been holding a series of meetings with major political parties.
The initial meeting with Jamaat-e-Islami was held on 26 April, during which discussions were largely centred on the proposals submitted by the Constitutional Reform Commission.
