Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman called for an end to the politics of hatred and division in Bangladesh, urging unity among the nation on Wednesday during a meeting with media representatives at a Dhaka hotel.
"We want the politics of hatred to be buried... it shouldn't rise again. We want the politics of division to be buried," he said, addressing editors, chief executives, news editors, and chief reporters from various print and electronic media outlets.
Dr Rahman emphasized that Jamaat-e-Islami does not support the division of the nation over any issue, saying, "In all cases, we want the nation to be united." He highlighted the need for harmony and collective progress in the country.
Regarding the recent ban on Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing, Chhatra Shibir, imposed on August 1, he said that the ban was a deliberate attempt to divert attention from the anti-government movement.
"Some of them wanted, if something like this happened, Jamaat-e-Islami would protest with its full strength... then something else would happen centering it. The momentum of the movement would divert... chaos would be created," he remarked, implying that the ban was designed to shift the focus from the protests.
He further argued that such actions might have been intended to overshadow one issue with another, thereby disrupting the momentum of dissent.
The Jamaat chief maintained that his party harbors "no resentment against anyone" and has "forgiven everyone."
However, he insisted that those who have committed specific crimes should be held accountable. Otherwise, there would be no correction in society, and the perpetrators would become more desperate and go beyond control, he warned.
Dr Rahman also criticized the practice of indiscriminate accusations, particularly referencing a murder case where 500 people were accused. He argued that mass accusations could allow actual perpetrators to escape justice.
"There is no need for so many cases. Some symbolic cases are enough for correcting people," he said. He stressed the importance of ensuring that no innocent person is falsely accused.
Addressing the role of neighboring countries, the Jamaat chief called for dignified relationships based on mutual respect.
"We want everyone to live as dignified neighbors. This is our stance, not just for India but for all," he said.
He further urged for cooperation without coercion, saying, "Help us as friends but do not try to force us. Let our people take the decision... We want friendship and cooperation from all."
Regarding press freedom, he acknowledged the media's demand for a promise to ensure a free and fair working environment for journalists. "I, on behalf of our party, make this promise. You will keep it on record," he assured.
The event was attended by other senior Jamaat leaders, including Nayeb-e-Ameers Prof Mujibur Rahman and Dr. Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher, Secretary General Prof Mia Golam Parwar, and Assistant Secretaries General Rafiqul Islam Khan and Hamidur Rahman Azad.
