Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has said that three key conditions must be met before national elections can be held in Bangladesh.
These include: reforms, prosecution of fascist elements, and the establishment of a proper electoral system.
Speaking at a press conference held in a hotel in the capital on Thursday, Shafiqur Rahman said, "The February 2026 timeline for elections is not rigid. Elections can be held before or after that, provided the conditions are fulfilled."
On Wednesday the Jamaat Ameer said that his party wants national election before the upcoming Ramadan that begins in February next year. He announced Jamaat's stand on election after holding a meeting with US Head of Mission Nicole Chulick.
The Jamaat Ameer emphasized that all political parties should support the government in the reform process. "The faster the coordination with the government takes place, the sooner the elections can be conducted," he said.
He stressed the need for visible, acceptable, and fundamental reforms ahead of any election. "Jamaat has proposed 41 reform points, BNP has proposed 31, while others have suggested 56-57 points. However, Jamaat is focused on only six fundamental reforms," he clarified.
On the issue of justice, Shafiqur Rahman said, "There must be accountability for fascist elements in a way that ensures justice is served. The election process must be conducted in such a way that its credibility cannot be questioned. More dialogue and discussions among political parties are essential in this regard."
In response to a question, he mentioned that Jamaat is not setting any specific deadline for the trials but reiterated that it remains a key demand of the party.
Discussing his recent visit to several European countries, Shafiqur Rahman confirmed that he met with BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia and Acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman during the trip. However, he stated that there were no formal discussions-only a courtesy visit to inquire about Khaleda Zia's health.
He also noted that during their European tour, Jamaat representatives urged for the establishment of embassies to strengthen bilateral relations with various countries and called for united international cooperation for the repatriation of Rohingya refugees.
