Dr. Shafiqur Rahman Calls for Fair Elections with Reforms and Proportional Representation

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman emphasized the need for fair elections, calling for fundamental reforms and a clear election roadmap from the government. He made these remarks as the chief guest at the Upazila Jamaat-e-Islami workers' conference at Kopotaksha College Maidan in Koyra, Khulna.

Dr. Shafiqur stressed the importance of a verified voter list, saying, "We want to see the voter list of all those of suitable and mature age before the elections." He added that many young people had been deprived of voting in the last three elections, creating disillusionment with the electoral process. "We must ensure that all of them vote and go door to door to collect their support," he said, also stressing the importance of including expatriates in the voter list to reflect the opinions of all Bangladeshis.

Dr. Shafiqur proposed that the elections be held on a proportional representation basis, ensuring that parties with even a small percentage of votes would have representation in the parliament. "This will prevent any party from holding the country or the voting process hostage," he stated.

Addressing local issues, the Jamaat Ameer urged the interim government to take initiatives to resolve the pressing problems in Koyra-Paikgachha in Khulna, promising that if Jamaat-e-Islami came to power, they would focus on solving the problems of the people without needing demands.

He also called for unity to build a society free from discrimination, as envisioned by the youth of the country. "Jamaat wants to serve the nation with the cooperation of all, including mothers and sisters," he said, adding that women would participate in building the country with security and dignity under Jamaat’s leadership.

In his speech, Dr. Shafiqur criticized the Awami League's handling of the elections in recent years, labeling the 2014 election as voter-less, the 2018 election as a night-time vote, and the 2012 election as a dummy election. He accused the Awami League of dreaming to stay in power until 2041 through fraudulent elections, but praised the student movement for standing against this, stating, "Allah saved the countrymen through the students of this country."

He further criticized the Awami League for destroying national institutions, including the judiciary, the Election Commission, and the Anti-Corruption Commission, and highlighted the lack of safety and dignity for women. Dr. Shafiqur called for justice for the victims of the regime's rule and urged that the Awami League also face justice for its actions.

The event was attended by prominent Jamaat leaders, including Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Parwar, Central Organizing Secretary Muhaddis Abdul Khalek, Khulna District Amir Maulana Emran Hussain, and others. It was chaired by Upazila Ameer Maulana Moktar Hossain and conducted by Secretary Maulana Sheikh Sirajul Islam.