Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has stated that the leaders and activists of his party remained in the country despite enduring oppression and torture.
Speaking at an election rally held at the Palashbari SM Pilot High School ground on Saturday, he emphasised that those who truly love the country and its people do not flee by providing undertakings.
During his address, the Jamaat chief pledged that his party would not seek votes by enticing people with allowances. Instead, he promised to eliminate unemployment by providing meaningful work for the youth if Jamaat-e-Islami is elected to power.
Vision for agricultural modernisation
Shafiqur outlined a plan to move away from traditional farming methods. He promised to modernise agriculture by supplying advanced logistics to farmers at fair prices to boost production.
Addressing the issue of crop spoilage due to lack of storage facilities, he committed to establishing crop and vegetable warehouses to ensure farmers receive a fair price for their produce.
Social and judicial reforms
The Ameer shared a vision for a “people-friendly” Bangladesh where justice cannot be bought and where the rights of all citizens – regardless of wealth, education, or religion – are equal.
He stated that if given the opportunity to serve a five-year term, the party would rehabilitate those currently involved in extortion by providing them with honourable employment. He further stressed the importance of ending religious conflict within the nation.
Regarding the political transition, he noted that failing to secure a “Yes” vote in a referendum would be a betrayal of the sacrifice made by the meritorious Rangpur student, Abu Sayeed.
Development projects for Gaibandha
Highlighting specific goals for the region, the Jamaat leader promised the construction of an Export Processing Zone (EPZ), a medical college and hospital, and a tunnel connecting Balashighat to Bahadurabad Ghat.
The rally was chaired by Principal Maulana Nazrul Islam Lebu, the Jamaat candidate for the Gaibandha-3 (Palashbari-Sadullapur) constituency.
Other speakers included Jamaat-e-Islami Central Assistant Secretary General Abdul Halim, JAGPA Vice President Rashed Prodhan, NCP Central Senior Joint General Secretary Rashedul Islam Jewel, and Shibir Central Secretary Sigbatul Shigba, alongside local leaders.
At the conclusion of the event, the Ameer formally handed over the party’s electoral symbol, the “Daripalla” (Scales), to the candidates contesting the five parliamentary seats in Gaibandha.
