None can survive by disregarding peoples' will : Jamaat Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman
Sarkar Shahadat Hossain, Gaibandha
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, on Monday warned that no political entity has ever succeeded in maintaining power or public respect after ignoring the mandate of the people.
Addressing a public rally at the Bonarpara Government Kazi Azhar Ali Model High School ground in Saghata upazila as the chief guest, the Jamaat chief urged all political forces to respect public sentiment and facilitate a transition toward democracy, justice, and a humane state.
"Today we stand on the side of 'Yes,' while those who once urged citizens to vote 'Yes' have turned into 'No,'" Dr. Rahman said. "Those who reject or overlook the people's verdict will not survive politically in the future, just as they failed in the past. The elections of 2014, 2018, and 2024 stand as clear testimony to this truth."
Calling for structural political reform, the Jamaat leader addressed the government directly: "Abandon the path of fascism, execute necessary reforms, and work toward building a humane and democratic state. As an opposition party, we stand ready to extend our constructive and positive cooperation."
Dr. Rahman envisioned a nation free from systemic corruption and extortion, where justice prevails for all citizens regardless of status. He warned against falling back into past patterns of authoritarianism, stressing that the country’s youth and general populace are far more aware today and firmly resistant to injustice and domination.
Recalling party members killed during previous government tenures, he added, "We do not wish to see a resurgence of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, or political repression. We urge those currently in power to eschew violence and uphold a healthy democratic framework."
The rally was presided over by Gaibandha District Jamaat Deputy Ameer and Gaibandha-5 (Saghata–Phulchhari) Member of Parliament, Abdul Warech. A large turnout of central and local leaders, party activists, and local residents attended the gathering.
