Special Correspondent: Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, has warned that the public will not accept any attempt to take control of or manipulate Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC, alleging that the government is trying to hand the bank back to individuals appointed during the previous administration.

Speaking as the chief guest at an Eid reunion programme held at a convention centre in Mirpur on Wednesday night, Dr. Shafiqur said opposition activists were prepared to take to the streets if necessary to resist any move that could undermine the country`s largest Islamic financial institution.

The event was presided over by Kafrul West Thana Secretary S.M. Raihan. Among those present were central Majlis-e-Shura member and Dhaka North Assistant Secretary Dr. Fakhruddin Manik, Dhaka North Media and Publicity Secretary Ataur Rahman Sarkar, Executive Council member Shah Alam Tuhin, and Professor Anwarul Karim.

Dr. Shafiqur alleged that Tk 34,000 crore had been looted from Islami Bank during the tenure of the Awami League government. He expressed concern that renewed efforts were underway to weaken the banking sector and warned that any damage to Islami Bank would have serious consequences for the national economy.

Calling for stability in the banking sector, he urged the government to act responsibly and also criticized the Governor of Bangladesh Bank. He stressed the need for stronger democratic processes and effective political accountability to address the country`s current challenges.

On the role of the opposition, the Jamaat chief said his party would continue to serve as a strong voice for the people and would never play the role of a "tamed opposition."

Taking a firm stance against extortion, he said extortionists have no political identity and argued that the problem could be significantly reduced if all 300 members of parliament worked together to combat it.

Referring to international developments, Dr. Shafiqur noted that conflicts and wars around the world had deprived many people of the joy of Eid. He specifically mentioned people in Iran, Lebanon, and Gaza, who, he said, celebrated the festival under extremely difficult circumstances.

He also claimed that ongoing tensions in the Middle East were affecting Bangladesh, citing disruptions in energy supplies due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. He called for swift action to address the crisis, whether it stemmed from artificial causes or global circumstances.

Emphasizing the importance of an effective parliament, he said many national problems could be resolved through a properly functioning legislature.

Expressing concern over the energy sector, Dr. Shafiqur alleged that despite declining gas reserves, adequate efforts were not being made to explore and develop new gas fields. He also criticized recent gas price adjustments, describing them as a “mockery” of the public.

The Jamaat Ameer further criticized the rising cost of living, saying ordinary people were facing increasing hardship. He announced that the party would soon unveil protest programmes aimed at protecting public interests.

Addressing law and order issues, he said a just and welfare-oriented society could only be established through fundamental reforms to the existing social system.

The programme was attended by party leaders, activists, supporters, and people from various walks of life.