Shafiqur says smear tactics will not stop Jamaat

After the uprising, he says occupation began in multiple places, questioning its benefit for Bangladesh

Jamaat-e-Islami chief Shafiqur Rahman has said his party seeks an end to all discrimination based on religion or caste, and it will no longer tolerate attempts to divide the nation by "raking up the past".

Speaking at an election rally held at the Bandar School grounds in Chattogram on Monday, he said: "We want to join hands with people of all faiths to cultivate this country like a garden. We want to ensure security for everyone.

"Specifically for our mothers and sisters, we will use all our strength to guarantee their safety in public spaces and workplaces. We shall uphold the dignity of mothers, God willing."

Addressing the rally organised by Jamaat’s Chattogram city unit, the party chief added: "You cannot stop us with smear campaigns. We will not rest until we reach our ultimate destination.

"Our goal is to build Bangladesh into a nation based on justice, governed by the laws ordained by Allah."

Without naming any specific political party, the Jamaat chief remarked on the post-uprising landscape, saying:

"Jamaat-e-Islami, the most persecuted party, remained patient. We helped restore peace and order, rushed to the families of the slain uprising activists, provided solace to the injured and crippled, and stood by those affected by floods. Meanwhile, another group lunged into a frenzy of extortion.

"They have begun seizing control of multiple places across the country. What can these people possibly offer Bangladesh?

(Read more details in Bangla)