Islami Andolan demands justice for July killings, state reform ahead of polls

NN Online:

Islami Andolan Bangladesh has called on the government to bring those responsible for the July killings to justice, echoing directives reportedly issued by ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The party also urged urgent reforms to state mechanisms, including a shift to a Proportional Representation (PR) electoral system to ensure fairer future elections.

Addressing a massive rally at Dhaka’s historic Suhrawardy Udyan on Saturday, party spokesperson Maulana Gazi Ataur Rahman presented a 16-point declaration demanding the restoration of good governance and prevention of authoritarianism. He stressed that reforms are essential to safeguard democratic institutions and prevent the return of fascist practices.

Rahman called for the government to announce a “July Charter” within a month, reflecting the demands of recent student-led movements and pledging a corruption-free, just society. He warned against allowing elected autocrats or corrupt individuals to hijack state institutions through partisanship and nepotism.

The party further demanded the restructuring of the public administration, from top to bottom, to ensure a level playing field ahead of the upcoming general election, expected before Ramadan next year.

Rahman accused loyalists of the previous Sheikh Hasina-led government of clinging to key positions and called for their removal. He also demanded the arrest and trial of fugitive Awami League leaders through intensified diplomatic efforts.

Islami Andolan’s declaration emphasizes the urgency of nationwide reforms to protect public rights, maintain constitutional integrity, and restore accountability across governance structures.