NN Online:
Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman collapsed twice from apparent heat exhaustion while addressing a mass rally at Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital on Saturday. Despite his health scare, he completed his speech seated on the stage floor, where he outlined the party’s future direction, pledging a firm stand against corruption and elite politics.
The rally, Jamaat’s first solo event at the historic venue, drew tens of thousands of supporters from across the country. Dr Shafiqur, presiding over the gathering, declared that the party’s next political struggle would target systemic corruption following what he described as the fall of “fascism” during the July uprising.
“Our MPs and ministers will not take government gifts, ride tax-free cars, or directly handle public funds,” he said. “Every allocation must be justified before the 160 million people of Bangladesh.”
Collapses Amid Intense Heat
Dr Shafiqur first collapsed at 5:26pm shortly after taking the stage. He was assisted by party volunteers and on-site medical personnel and resumed speaking after a brief pause—only to collapse again minutes later. Refusing further medical intervention, he insisted on finishing his address from a seated position on the stage floor, using a hand-held microphone.
“As long as Allah grants us life, we will fight for the people. If we are entrusted with power, we will serve, not rule,” he told the crowd, drawing cheers.
Anti-Corruption Vow
Reiterating a zero-tolerance policy, the Jamaat Ameer said no party leader would be allowed to engage in corruption or accept privileges if Jamaat were to assume power. He portrayed the party as a platform for the common people rather than the privileged class.
“We will not allow a single act of bribery or favoritism. I speak not only as the Ameer but as a representative of the children, youth, workers, and elderly of this country.”
Tragic Losses Announced
The rally was overshadowed by the announcement of three deaths among Jamaat supporters on their way to Dhaka. One of them, Dacope upazila Ameer Maulana Abu Sayeed, died in a road accident in Faridpur. Shafiqur mourned the deaths during his address and said their sacrifices were not in vain.
“May Allah accept them as martyrs. They saved many lives through their dedication,” he said.
Push for Political Reform
The Jamaat chief called for a “new system” to replace what he described as a decaying political framework. Referring to the sacrifices made during the July movement that led to the fall of the Awami League-led government, he urged the nation to build a more just, transparent, and accountable order.
“If we continue with the same corrupt system, what did our people sacrifice their lives for?” he asked. He also voiced personal regret for not being martyred in the movement, adding, “I pray to Allah to grant me martyrdom in the fight for truth.”
Well-Coordinated Event
The rally’s logistics were extensive, with organisers deploying around 6,000 volunteers and providing 50,000 to 60,000 water bottles and 500 toilets. Sign language interpreters were also present, making the event more inclusive.
Jamaat leaders Nayeb-e-Amir Professor Mujibur Rahman and Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Parwar played key roles in managing the event, ensuring that it proceeded without further disruptions despite the tragic incidents.
