Gazipur: Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament Dr Shafiqur Rahman has urged his party to prioritize selecting candidates with ethical integrity and trustworthy backgrounds for the upcoming local government elections. He emphasized the importance of evaluating candidates' halal livelihood, family background, and social standing during a three-day central education camp for district and metropolitan ameer and nayeb-e-ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami, which concluded on Saturday evening.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the camp, which commenced on Thursday, was chaired by Tarbiyat Divisional Committee President and Assistant Secretary General Maulana ATM Masum, with Central Working Committee Member Dr Maulana Chamiul Haque Faruki conducting the programme. Dr Shafiqur stressed that those who betray the organisation's trust should not be given responsibilities and that individuals in positions of authority must uphold a basic standard of morality.
He advised Jamaat's leaders and rukons, including district ameers, to remain vigilant and continuously assess their roles. He also spoke about the challenges faced by believers, urging them to endure tests of varying difficulties. Reflecting on the sacrifices made by Jamaat leaders and workers, he mentioned that these efforts have paved the way for building a 'new Bangladesh'. He compared the struggles faced by Jamaat to those endured by Muslims in Kashmir, Palestine, and Egypt.
Dr Shafiqur highlighted the challenges Jamaat faced under the Awami League's rule, restricting their activities. He encouraged leaders to evaluate their actions in light of current circumstances and strengthen their faith. He paid tribute to Islamic thinker Maulana Syed Abul A'la Maududi, acknowledging his contributions to the Muslim Ummah through his study of the Quran and Sunnah.
He cautioned party leaders against actions that might create doubts or controversy and urged them to remain vigilant against internal discord. On foreign relations, he emphasized respecting the rights of neighboring countries while opposing oppression. He alleged foreign efforts to destabilize Bangladesh and urged patience in response.
Dr Shafiqur expressed concerns about economic imperialism, claiming foreign interests aimed to exploit Bangladesh's potential. He criticized the media as a tool of imperialism and highlighted threats to education and culture. Addressing global challenges, he spoke about the spread of Islamophobia and instability, pointing to the conflict between Iran and the United States as having potential global implications.
He called for unity among Muslim countries against global aggression and stressed the importance of maintaining balanced diplomatic relations to protect Bangladesh's interests. He urged Jamaat leaders to prioritize major social issues and provide strong support to the people, alleging attacks on interest, bribery, and human dignity. Dr Shafiqur concluded by addressing negative portrayals of Jamaat, urging party leaders to seek divine guidance and unity in overcoming challenges.