Jamaat-e-Islami's Ameer, Dr Shafiqur Rahman, has called upon all units of the party and the nation to observe Martyred Intellectuals Day on Saturday and Victory Day on Monday with due solemnity.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Ameer said, "I urge everyone to commemorate Martyred Intellectuals Day on Saturday and Victory Day on Monday with discussions, rallies, and prayers."
Highlighting the importance of these two days, he said, "The significance of these days in our national life is immense. We remember with deep respect the contributions of the martyred intellectuals and heroic freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence during the Liberation War. We pray to the Almighty for the forgiveness of their souls."
He said, "I also pay my heartfelt respects to the freedom fighters who fought for the liberation of the motherland in 1971. Moreover, I pray for the forgiveness of those who were martyred in the July-August uprising, extend my deepest sympathies to the families of the deceased, and wish a speedy recovery for the injured."
In 1971, members and supporters of Jamaat-e-Islami opposed the Liberation War and organized activities against it.
Several influential leaders of the party have been convicted and executed for crimes against humanity during the war.
In his statement, Dr Shafiqur Rahman said, "The nation is observing Martyred Intellectuals Day and Victory Day at a time when the people and students have united to free the country from the grip of a fascist regime. After enduring over 15 years of misrule, oppression, disappearances, and killings, the nation is now seeking peace, stability, and freedom from a crumbling economy."
He added, "In such circumstances, the domestic and foreign allies of the fallen autocrats are attempting to destabilize the country through conspiracies and strategies. We call upon the people to stand united and resist all such anti-national plots and conspiracies."
Concluding his statement, he extended his sincere greetings and congratulations to the nation on the occasion of Victory Day. "I wish for the happiness, prosperity, and well-being of the people," he said.
