In an exclusive conversation with The New Nation, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, the Ameer (President) of Bangladesh’s largest Islamic political party, Jamaat-e-Islami, offers his perspective on the country’s evolving political landscape, the future of Bangladesh, and the role Jamaat-e-Islami intends to play.
Below is the full transcript of the interview conducted at the party’s Malibagh headquarters.
Q: Sheikh Hasina’s government fell on 5th August. It is said that this marks the beginning of Bangladesh 2.0. What role did Jamaat-e-Islami play in this?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: The power of the students was the driving force behind this change. Their demands for rights were entirely justified.
However, the government’s strict and uncompromising response turned the movement violent, leading to the tragic loss of many lives, including members of law enforcement.
Q: After Sheikh Hasina left the country, there have been reports of attacks on minorities. Jamaat, BNP, and Hefazat-e-Islam are accused of these actions.
Residents of violence-affected areas like Jessore claim Jamaat members are threatening them.
How do you respond to these allegations?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: I find it hard to believe these accusations.
We have deployed our members to protect religious sites and ensure the safety of all communities.
Until the government fully regains control, our people will continue to provide security.
Q: Amnesty International reports that Jamaat has targeted minorities. How do you respond to this?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: We have always demanded fair investigations into such claims. Any inquiry should be conducted under the supervision of the United Nations, and we fully support this.
If anyone is found guilty, we will take immediate action and hand them over to the authorities.
In our view, there is no minority or majority in Bangladesh, and everyone born in this country is born with equal rights.
Q: Some allege that Awami League leaders organise attacks on minorities. Do you agree?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: Yes, I do. There have been instances where Awami League leaders have orchestrated these attacks to tarnish our reputation.
Q: What is the ultimate goal of Jamaat-e-Islami?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: Jamaat-e-Islami is guided by a clear ideology. Our aim is to create a society where there is no discrimination, justice is served to all, and everyone lives with dignity.
Unfortunately, our country has not yet developed this culture, but we are committed to making it a reality.
Q: Your party has faced significant opposition from Sheikh Hasina’s government, including being banned on 1st August. Why do you think this happened?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: Our de-registration in 2013 was politically motivated. They accused us of being anti-liberation, which is simply not true.
We supported a united Pakistan before independence, but after 1971, we accepted the reality of Bangladesh and have worked to build a just society ever since.
Sheikh Hasina’s government targeted us because they feared our influence and our commitment to Islamic values.
Q: Bangladesh has been a secular country since its inception. Do you believe it should remain secular?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: Secularism, as I understand it, means that every religion has the right to practice its beliefs freely and without fear. This is essential for peace in a diverse society like ours.
Q: Do you believe that religion should be supreme in governance?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: Absolutely. Without a foundation in religion, there can be no true justice in society.
A person who fears Allah will act justly and responsibly, knowing they will be held accountable on the Day of Judgement.
Q: Even in the 21st century, you advocate for Islamic laws like Sharia, and why?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: Sharia is a timeless model for governance, one that ensures justice and fairness for all.
Its importance will never diminish, no matter the era.
Q: How do you view the interim government led by Dr. Yunus?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: It’s too early to comment on his leadership.
He has just begun his work, and we must give him time. Jamaat-e-Islami will support him and the government as they navigate these challenging times.
Q: The interim government includes non-political advisors, including students. What do you think about this?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: The inclusion of non-political advisors and new faces, like students, is a positive step. It brings fresh perspectives to governance.
Q: BNP has called for early elections. How long should the interim government last, and will Jamaat participate in the elections?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: We are prepared to participate in the elections, and we hope they will be fair.
The duration of the interim government depends on the challenges ahead. The previous government left our institutions in disarray, and restoring them will take time.
Q: Students have demanded that the interim government stay in power for three years.
What is your opinion on this?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: Three years is too long. The interim government should focus on stabilising the country and then hand over power as soon as possible.
Q: Jamaat-e-Islami has a history of alliances with BNP. Will you form an alliance before the elections?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: While we have been allies in the past, we are not currently in any formal alliance. Time will tell if that changes.
Q: The International Crimes Tribunal found Jamaat leaders guilty of war crimes. If Jamaat joins the government, how will you address this?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: These accusations are part of a political vendetta. If our leaders were truly guilty, why were no cases filed against them in 1971? These charges were fabricated to weaken our party.
Q: Bangladesh has experienced significant economic growth in recent years. What is your perspective on the future?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: The narrative of economic growth is misleading. Our financial and banking sectors are in decline, a situation that has been building over the past 15 years.
While there has been development, it has been accompanied by widespread corruption.
Q: If Jamaat and BNP come to power, how will relations with India be?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: We aim to establish a relationship with India based on equality and mutual respect. Policies can change, but geography cannot, so we must coexist peacefully.
Q: Bangladesh has maintained strong ties with Pakistan and China. What will your approach be towards these countries?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: Our relationship with Pakistan is not particularly special. We seek peace and mutual respect with all nations, including China.
Q: Do you believe that Bangladesh is entering a new era?
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman: I wouldn’t call it a new beginning, but rather a reformation. This is not a revolution, but a necessary change for our country’s future.