Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Friday pledged to pursue justice-based and realistic development, saying his party would not rely on “empty dreams or false promises” if it comes to power.
Speaking to journalists at around 8:30 AM before leaving Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport for a two-day tour of northern Bangladesh, Dr Rahman said any future Jamaat-led government would focus on logic-driven, fair and people-centred governance.
“If we get the opportunity to serve the country through the people’s votes, love and support, we will undertake justice-based development and resolve problems based on logic and reality, not empty dreams or false promises, using all our strength and the resources that belong to the people,” he said.
The Jamaat ameer criticised what he described as attempts to influence voters through inducements, stressing that his party rejects such practices. “We do not believe in buying people. We respect human dignity. Those who engaged in such practices are now trying to blame others. Offering incentives like subsidised rice or housing to influence votes is something we despise,” he said.
Urging citizens to vote freely, Dr Rahman said voters should support the party or candidate of their choice without fear. “Your single vote will determine who carries the responsibility of running the country. Voting is not only a right; it is a sacred duty,” he added.
He also called for an end to what he termed “17 years of rotten politics”, advocating a political culture based on harmony and mutual respect.
As part of election campaigning, the Jamaat ameer is visiting northern Bangladesh on a two-day tour. On Friday, he is scheduled to address public rallies as chief guest in Panchagarh at 11:00 AM, Dinajpur at 2:00 PM, Thakurgaon at 4:00 PM and in the divisional city of Rangpur in the evening.
On Saturday morning, he will visit the grave of Abu Sayeed. Later, he will address public meetings in Palashbari, Gaibandha, at 10:00 AM; Bogura at 12:00 PM; Sirajganj at 4:00 PM; and Pabna at 6:30 PM, before returning to Dhaka.
