Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami on Saturday criticised the interim government’s recent political engagement abroad, saying it compromised the administration’s perceived neutrality.
The party objected to a joint press conference in London by interim government officials and leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), following a meeting between Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman.
Jamaat described the move as “morally wrong” and inconsistent with the country’s political norms.
In a statement issued after a central executive council meeting chaired by party leader Shafiqur Rahman, Jamaat said the event showed “special interest” in one party, undermining the chief adviser’s impartiality.
While acknowledging that meetings with political parties are expected, the party argued that a joint press conference abroad demonstrated bias.
Jamaat warned that such actions could cast doubt on the fairness of the upcoming general election.
“In a country with many active political parties, it is inappropriate to make key decisions based on discussions with just one,” the statement said.
The controversy follows the chief adviser’s 6 June address, in which he outlined an election roadmap. Jamaat contended that this announcement should have come after broader consultations with all parties.
The party called for transparency and fairness, urging the interim government to ensure a level playing field.
It also urged Chief Adviser Yunus to clarify his role and reaffirm the government’s neutrality, warning that public trust in the electoral process could otherwise be undermined.