The leader of the Opposition and Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Shafiqur Rahman, emphasized that his party will continue its presence in the parliament by advocating from within while highlighting that their primary platform for action is on the streets rather than in the parliamentary setting. He made these remarks during a discussion event held at the Institution of Diploma Engineers in Dhaka’s Kakrail, where he engaged with families of July martyrs and fighters.
In the context of the ongoing movement by the alliance to enforce the referendum decision on state reforms following the July National Charter, Shafiqur Rahman underscored the importance of bringing about the desired change that the people of the country aspire for. He questioned the effectiveness of parliament if it fails to bring about the anticipated transformation.
Regarding the BNP, the Jamaat Ameer pointed out that numerous lawmakers from the party have experienced suppression themselves, stressing the need for solidarity among the oppressed. He also expressed disapproval of any attempts to politicize the martyrs, emphasizing that they are a national treasure that transcends party affiliations.
Shafiqur Rahman criticized the BNP’s stance on the 31-point reform agenda, particularly their reversal on constitutional reforms. He further accused the BNP of orchestrating a series of takeovers in various institutions, alleging a move towards establishing “one-party rule in a BAKSAL manner.”
During the event organized by the 11-party alliance, the Opposition Chief Whip and National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam highlighted the unity forged during the mass uprising, but criticized the current BNP government for obstructing reform efforts. He urged the July fighters to gear up for another mass movement to push for the necessary reforms, emphasizing the importance of a well-organized approach to avoid setbacks.
Nahid Islam cautioned against exploiting the July martyrs and injured for political gains, condemning the government’s attempts to justify its actions using historical movements. Speakers at the event, including family members of July martyrs and injured activists, voiced their disappointment over the unmet goals of the July movement, particularly in terms of ending discrimination and reforming the state.
They criticized the BNP for not presenting significant ordinances in parliament, which they viewed as contradictory to the spirit of the movement. Participants at the event, including Sanzida Khan and Kamrul Ahsan, called for the government to adhere to the July Charter based on the referendum outcome to avert a larger protest movement.
Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar and other leaders of the 11-party alliance also addressed the event, reiterating the need for continued efforts to fulfill the aspirations of the July movement and bring about the desired reforms in the country.
