Jamaat-e-Islami, Bangladesh is holding its first-ever national rally at the historic Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital. The first phase of the rally began on Saturday morning at 9:40am with a cultural programme.
Islamic singer and lyricist Saifullah Mansur is conducting the cultural segment. Saimum Shilpi Gosthi performed at the opening, while various other cultural organisations from different metropolitan and divisional levels are also participating in the event.
The rally has drawn a massive crowd as Jamaat leaders and activists gathered to press home their seven-point demand. According to eyewitnesses, party supporters began arriving at the venue from Friday evening. Thousands marched to Suhrawardy Udyan on Saturday morning, filling the ground to capacity. Even outside the premises, large numbers of people were seen gathering.
Party leaders said the rally marks a significant moment for Jamaat-e-Islami as it seeks to return to active politics with public support. Organisers claimed that the huge turnout reflects popular backing for their demands.
The seven-point demand placed at the rally includes the restoration of the caretaker government system to ensure free, fair and neutral elections. Jamaat has also called for the immediate release of all detained party leaders and activists, alongside the withdrawal of politically motivated cases.
The party further demanded the repeal of the government ban on Jamaat-e-Islami and recognition of its constitutional right to participate in politics. It also urged the government to withdraw all repressive laws and measures against Islamic organisations and practices.
Other demands include ensuring the right to hold peaceful meetings, processions and religious gatherings without obstruction, stopping enforced disappearances, extra-judicial killings and torture, and bringing those responsible to justice. Finally, Jamaat demanded the release of all political prisoners, including opposition leaders and activists, and the guarantee of democratic rights for all citizens.