Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has called for a fair and transparent resolution of allegations of irregularities in several constituencies during the 13th National Parliamentary Election.
He made the remarks at a joint press conference on Friday night (February 13) at the party’s central office in Moghbazar, following a meeting with the party’s executive committee and leaders of the 11-party alliance.
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman raised concerns regarding the election results of several candidates, including Jamaat Secretary General Golam Parwar, NCP’s Nasiruddin Patwary, and Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis leader Mamunul Haque. He alleged inconsistencies in how results were accepted in some constituencies while rejected in others under similar circumstances. He specifically mentioned that while results in one candidate’s case were accepted, they were canceled in another’s, including the Secretary General’s seat.
He stated that affected candidates would seek legal remedy within a specified timeframe. If proper action is not taken within that period, the party would make further decisions. “What is happening must stop. If it does not stop, we will be compelled to take necessary steps,” he said.
The Jamaat chief also alleged that in several constituencies, results were suddenly suspended, and candidates who were leading were later declared defeated. He claimed that in many areas, party workers had to struggle to protect the results, and in some cases, results were manipulated or altered. He further alleged that polling centers were seized in certain areas.
He said that foreign observers would present what they had witnessed, and Jamaat would also present its own findings. Dr. Rahman emphasized that the party does not want a return to what he described as a “dark chapter” in politics.
He warned that the party’s polite and constructive political approach should not be mistaken for weakness. According to him, despite their positive stance, party activists and supporters have faced attacks in different parts of the country, which he described as signs of fascism. He warned that if such tendencies re-emerge, responsibility would fall on those involved.
Calling for a united Bangladesh, he said unity must be maintained within the framework of the Constitution, where all parties are treated equally under the same rules. If fascism returns, he warned, the party would not remain silent.
Addressing the public, he said Jamaat would stand more firmly with the people and continue working to implement the commitments made earlier, particularly those supported by the youth. He added that if necessary, the party would take to the streets.
He also called for allowing the 11-party alliance to function in a democratic manner and said the alliance had united against corruption. Referring to alleged irregularities, he urged the Election Commission to suspend results in cases not covered under the Representation of the People Order (RPO) and resolve the issues accordingly.
Mentioning that “Yes” had won in the referendum, he said the July Charter must be fully implemented, and if it is not, the party would continue to raise its voice. He concluded by questioning why a certain party remains dissatisfied despite what he described as numerous irregular actions in its favor, asking, “What more do they want?”
