Published : 17 Jan 2026, 01:53 AM
Updated : 21 Aug 2026, 03:01 PM
Islami Andolan Bangladesh has cited both ideological and political reasons for withdrawing from the Jamaat-e-Islami–led alliance, while urging other parties to assess whether Jamaat’s policies conflict with their own principles.
The party, led by Syed Fazlul Karim, popularly known as Charmonai Pir, also voiced doubts over whether the national election would be genuinely competitive following Jamaat’s recent engagement with its apparent rival, the BNP, and talk of forming a government.
The stance was outlined at a press conference on Friday afternoon at Islami Andolan’s central office in the Noakhali Tower in Purana Paltan.
Party spokesperson Gazi Ataur Rahman said, “The Jamaat-e-Islami has always been a major force in the alliance -- this cannot be denied. Their strength and resources are substantial. But ideologically and morally, we are not weaker than anyone.”
“Our unfortunate reality today is that we watched in disbelief as Jamaat chief [Shafiqur] clearly said if they come to power, the state will be run under existing laws.
“He made this comment while speaking to a representative of the Christian community. A respected woman from that community later said ‘We have been reassured because Jamaat’s Amir has promised that Shariah law will not be implemented’.”
The joint secretary general added that upon learning of this development, it became clear that their primary goals would not be achieved.
He argued that if the main political forces move away from Islamic ideals and “lack” confidence in Islamic law just as they approach power, the dreams of activists working for Islam across the country will remain “unfulfilled”.
Ataur pointed out that since its inception, Jamaat's core slogan has been "We want Allah’s law and the rule of honest people”.
He questioned why the group is moving away from that promise now that a path to power has opened, suggesting that the leadership has prioritised office over the emotions and beliefs of its millions of supporters.
Following the withdrawal, Islami Andolan will contest in 268 seats independently and support candidates in the remaining 32 constituencies.
The spokesperson said the party does not wish to obstruct Jamaat’s path to power but maintains that existing laws have “failed” to establish peace or equality over the last 54 years.
He added that the party remains committed to replacing current laws with those of Islam to ensure rights for all citizens regardless of religion.
"If our partners say they will not follow that path, we are no longer prepared to be their associates.”
ALLIED PARTIES URGED TO REFLECT
Ahead of the national election and referendum on Feb 12, nominations have been reviewed, with appeals currently under consideration at the Election Commission.
Final candidates will be confirmed on Jan 20.
The 11-party alliance led by Jamaat emerged from a joint movement of eight religion-based groups.
The movement began with Jamaat, Islami Andolan, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, Khelafat Majlis, Bangladesh Khilafat Andolon, Jatiya Ganatantrik Party (JAGPA), Nezam-e-Islam Party and Bangladesh Development Party (BDP).
As the election approached, discussions began to convert the movement into an electoral alliance.
The National Citizen Party (NCP) and LDP joined the alliance before the submission deadline, followed by AB Party the next day.
Addressing Jamaat’s allies, Ataur said: “We respect the sentiments of others. Many developed different feelings about this alliance and we honour them. Particularly, we respect those Islamic organisations that remain part of the alliance; we have no negative thoughts about them.
“But we sincerely request that if they consider Jamaat’s main statement to conflict with their own principles, they clarify their position.”
DOUBTS OVER ELECTION FAIRNESS
The political reason for withdrawal was also highlighted. Ataur said mutual respect and coordination are essential for any alliance.
Jamaat’s leader, however, without informing other members, reportedly met BNP chief Tarique Rahman and discussed forming a government.
He said, [Shafiqur] clearly said after meeting [Tarique] that they will form a post-election government with the BNP, following the framework laid by Khaleda’s alliance. Since we are a rival, he made this announcement without discussing it with us or other partners.
“Now we are concerned that a pre-election agreement with a rival party may turn this into a managed election rather than a real contest. Will this be an election or a selection? This is our concern.”
“We want a competitive election,” Ataur added. “Since independence, elections in Bangladesh have often been flawed. We want to move beyond that. We do not want a negotiated or divided election, but a proper competitive process.
“We remain concerned whether the election will be free, fair and accepted, or whether agreements behind the scenes will alter the outcome. This is why we feel these issues must be made public.”
‘ONE BOX POLICY’
Ataur said, “Through Uprising, a ‘fascist’ government was overthrown, raising public expectations for a new Bangladesh. Islami Andolan Bangladesh saw a major opportunity for Islamic forces to establish citizens’ rights and reconstruct the state according to Islamic principles.
“To make the most of this opportunity, and to establish a welfare state free from inequality and injustice, the party’s Ameer announced a ‘One Box Policy’ for Islamic forces in the election.
“The policy inspired many to unite with our leader, creating a wave of awareness and hope. Its core was the establishment of Islam and reconstruction of Bangladesh according to Islamic ideals.
“Unfortunately, we have seen some attempting to deviate from the One Box Policy to pursue political power, which grieves us deeply. We cannot betray our leaders, our activists or the Islamic sentiments of the people. Our longstanding mission is to establish Islam and a just, welfare state; we will not deviate from this path.”
The party acknowledges that leaving the alliance may make the path ahead difficult.
Ataur said, “We know the road ahead may not be smooth. We do not pursue politics for power; our primary goal is Islam. We follow principles and ideals, but we have faced opposition over questions of policy, justice and ethics.
“The election will see our efforts to enforce the One Box Policy promoted by Charmonai Pir.” he added.
