Jamaat offers apology over 1971 role
Staff Reporter :
In a remarkable statement, Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has publicly offered an unconditional apology for any harm or suffering caused by his party or its members since 1947, including its controversial role during Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War.
Speaking on a recent televised talk show, Dr Rahman addressed the longstanding criticisms of Jamaat’s history, particularly following his press conference after the acquittal of senior Jamaat leader ATM Azharul Islam in a war crimes case.
When asked if his apology extended to the events of 1971, Dr Rahman responded unequivocally: “Yes, not just for ’71. I have sought forgiveness without condition from anyone who may have been affected by us at any time since 1947.”
Having assumed leadership during a time of political isolation and legal challenges for Jamaat, Dr Rahman said his apology arose from a moral imperative rather than political calculation.
“Just as individuals can err, so can political parties. History will ultimately judge what is right or wrong,” he said.
“What is viewed as a mistake today might be seen differently tomorrow.”
He added, “As an ideological party, we acknowledge that humans are fallible. Our actions, or those of our members, may have caused pain. For all of this, I have asked for forgiveness unconditionally.”
Dr Rahman stressed that seeking forgiveness reflects accountability rather than weakness. “There is no shame in asking for forgiveness. I have done so out of moral responsibility and human values.”
This marks the most comprehensive expression of regret by a sitting Jamaat leader over the party’s contentious past-particularly its opposition to Bangladesh’s independence and the alleged involvement of some leaders in wartime atrocities.
Jamaat-e-Islami has long struggled with its wartime legacy, facing repeated election bans and avoiding direct acknowledgement or apology for its role in 1971. Dr Rahman’s remarks may indicate a strategic shift as the party seeks to re-establish itself in mainstream politics amid ongoing national dialogue on electoral reforms and political reconciliation.
While the party has yet to issue an official response expanding on Dr Rahman’s comments, political observers anticipate significant reactions, especially from families of war victims and justice advocates.
Analysts suggest that if the apology is followed by tangible actions, it could open pathways for Jamaat’s political reintegration, although such a process remains fraught with legal, social, and historical complexities.
For now, Dr Rahman’s call for forgiveness stands as a rare moment of introspection in Bangladesh’s often polarised political landscape-evoking both hope and scepticism.