Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has said the country would undergo significant transformation within five years if his party comes to power.
He made the remarks on Saturday afternoon while addressing an election rally organised by the district and metropolitan units of Jamaat at the Alia Madrasa field in Sylhet as the chief guest.
Dr Rahman told the gathering that the party envisions a “new Bangladesh” shaped by the aspirations of young people and women. Drawing a historical reference, he said Hazrat Shahjalal (RA) came to Sylhet to resist oppression, adding, “We see ourselves as inheritors of that legacy.”
Alleging that the country has witnessed decades of oppressive politics, he claimed Jamaat had been among the worst sufferers. However, he added that the party does not believe in revenge and has refrained from retaliatory actions.
Focus on Sylhet’s development
Highlighting Sylhet’s natural resources, the Jamaat chief said local residents were not receiving their fair share of benefits. He pointed to gaps in gas and electricity coverage, deteriorating rivers, and rising substance abuse, pledging corrective steps if given responsibility.
He also vowed to curb extortion and bribery, saying no one would have the courage to demand illegal payments in offices or courts under their administration.
Speaking on corruption, Dr Rahman alleged that public funds had been misused over the decades and warned that those involved would face accountability if his party assumes office.
Airport, agriculture, and workers’ welfare
Describing Sylhet as a region heavily supported by expatriates, he criticised the limited international operations at the airport and promised to develop it into a fully functional international facility.
The Jamaat leader also outlined plans to support farmers with equipment and ensure proper markets for agricultural goods. Fishermen would receive nets, while the state would take responsibility for the welfare of tea garden workers’ families, he said.
Addressing a recent controversy over a post on his X account, Dr Rahman claimed it had been hacked and used to publish offensive content. He said he had forgiven those responsible and did not wish to pursue the matter further.
“I stand here not just as Jamaat’s Ameer but as a son of Sylhet,” he said, urging voters to give the party a chance. “We will not become owners of the country; we will serve as its guardians.”
The rally, chaired by Sylhet city Ameer Mohammad Fakhrul Islam, was attended by leaders of the 11-party alliance and candidates from several constituencies. Large processions joined the event from noon, and organisers noted a significant participation of women.
Rallies in Habiganj and Moulvibazar
Earlier in the day, Dr Rahman addressed another major rally at Newfield Ground in Habiganj, where he stressed national unity and pledged to build a just society with equal application of the law.
He said the judiciary must remain free from financial influence and promised transparency measures, including public disclosure of annual income and expenditure by elected representatives and their families.
Criticising the use of politics for personal gain, he said Jamaat views politics as a responsibility rather than a profession and pledged to ensure security for businesses by eliminating extortion.
Thousands of supporters from across the district attended the gathering.
Later, speaking at a rally in Kulaura, Moulvibazar, the Jamaat chief described the upcoming vote as one that could “change Bangladesh.” He expressed hope for a corruption-free country and emphasised the importance of expatriates in national development.
He also promised that the bodies of migrant workers who die abroad would be brought home at state expense and that their families would receive necessary support.
Dr Rahman said the party aims to empower youth and build a country where all citizens—regardless of background—are equal before the law.
At the event, he introduced parliamentary candidates for Moulvibazar-1 and Moulvibazar-2 constituencies and reiterated his commitment to establishing a justice-based society.