The Nayeb-e-Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Syed Abdullah Md Taher, said that the environment for a free and fair upcoming national election has not been established yet. He also raised concerns over the Election Commission's role, saying the Commission has failed to take 'appropriate actions' in several instances.
Syed Abdullah Md. Taher made these remarks on Sunday during a dialogue between Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Consensus Commission at the LD Hall of the National Parliament building. A delegation of 11 Jamaat leaders led by Taher participated in the discussion.
During the dialogue, Taher called on the interim government to focus more seriously on ensuring a 'level playing field' ahead of the election. "Personally, I believe we still don't see an environment where the next election will be entirely free and fair. Already, in some constituencies, various problems are emerging. Just a few days ago, the Jamaat office in Atghoria, Pabna, was set on fire. There have been incidents of assault as well. The election date hasn't even been announced, yet there's already a competition over control," he said.
He welcomed the chair of the Electoral Reform Commission, adding, "We must ensure a system where elections are held in a fair and accurate manner. Whatever measures are necessary-strict or otherwise-should be taken. The election must be credible and acceptable."
Taher also criticized the Election Commission, saying, "We have concerns about the Commission's role. In some cases, it is evident that the Commission is not taking appropriate action. We urge the government to remain alert in this regard. Creating a level playing field isn't just about election day-it's about the entire pre-election process. The government must start acting now to curb potential unrest, where signs of confrontation between political groups are already visible."
Taher noted shortcomings in the government's current electoral approach, saying, "Some actions-whether intentional or not-lack neutrality and competence. Our main goal is to ensure the election is free, fair, and free from violence. The last three elections were theatrical and served as major catalysts for the current political backlog. To move forward, Bangladesh needs a truly fair election."
He pointed out the lack of a clear electoral timeline, which he said is causing instability within political parties. "Since the last dialogue, various incidents have occurred. Some analysts believe these are part of a larger conspiracy to destabilize the country. We condemn such conspiracies and urge the government to respond with firmness and accuracy."
Concluding his remarks, Taher said, "What matters most is the collective welfare of the nation. That's why we've adopted a spirit of consensus-based on dialogue and for the good of the country and its people."
The dialogue was presided over by Ali Riaz, Vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission. Badiul Alam Majumdar, head of the Election Reform Commission, and Iftekharuzzaman, chief of the Anti-Corruption Commission Reform body, also participated in the session.
