Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Friday called on voters and party activists to remain vigilant on polling day to ensure a free, fair, and impartial election, as the 11-party alliance held large rallies in Feni, Noakhali, Lakshmi-pur, and Cumilla ahead of the February 12 polls.
Addressing an early morning rally at Feni Government Pilot High School ground, Dr Rahman urged voters in Feni's three constituencies to elect the alliance-backed candidates and called on supporters to guard polling centres so that "no force can swoop down and steal votes." He emphasized that alliance activists should remain present until results were secured, warning that safeguarding the electoral process was crucial for a just Bangladesh.
Speaking as the chief guest, the Jamaat Ameer stressed that the alliance's unity was aimed not at partisan gain but at building a nation based on justice and fairness. "We do not want a divided nation. We want a united Bangladesh and wish to move the country forward together," he said.
Dr Rahman also addressed rumours regarding Qawmi madrasas, rejecting claims that Jamaat-e-Islami would close them if it comes to power. "Islamic education is being preserved by those who genuinely believe in it. Qawmi madrasas are close to our hearts. We will prove our commitment through actions, not words," he said, describing fear-mongering campaigns as politically motivated.
The Jamaat Ameer highlighted that the alliance seeks victory not just for a party but for the country's 180 million people. Calling on supporters to join what he termed a "marathon for justice," he said the movement aims to establish a Bangladesh rooted in accountability, transparency, and the rule of law.
The Feni rally, presided over by Feni district Jamaat Ameer Mufti Abdul Hannan, included speeches by several alliance leaders, including Jamaat-e-Islami central assistant secretary general ATM Masum, AB Party Chairman Mohammad Mujibur Rahman Manju, JAGPA President Rashed Pradhan, and DUCSU Vice-President Sadik Kayem, alongside local Jamaat candidates.
Addressing youth empowerment, Dr Rahman said young people are assets of the nation. "We do not want to insult you with unemployment allowances. We want to turn your hands into tools for nation-building and ensure dignified employment," he said. He also dismissed concerns over women's participation, pledging to safeguard women's dignity, security, and equal opportunities.
Reiterating his vision of equal rights for all communities, Dr Rahman said, "Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, and Christians are all equal to us. Everyone living in Bangladesh will enjoy equal rights." He called for voters to cast their first vote in favour of 'Yes' in the upcoming referendum, saying "'Yes' means freedom, 'No' means subjugation," and promised to end dynastic politics to create opportunities based on merit.
Honouring BUET student Abrar Fahad, Dr Rahman said, "As long as Feni exists, Abrar Fahad should live in your hearts," commemorating his sacrifice for speaking out on national issues. He also pledged development projects for Feni, including an overpass at Lalpul, a medical college, and a modern stadium.
Later, in Noakhali's Maijdee town, Dr Rahman warned that those who fail to exercise restraint cannot ensure public safety if elected. He emphasized fair pay recommendations for government employees to curb corruption.
At an afternoon rally in Lakshmipur, he reiterated the alliance's commitment to unity, youth leadership, and opportunities for dignified work. "We want to build skilled hands and entrust the leadership of Bangladesh to the youth," he said, also paying tribute to activists of the July movement who paved the way for political change.
Dr Rahman concluded his day addressing a rally at Laksam Stadium in Cumilla, underscoring the alliance's nationwide campaign for justice, transparency, and a fair electoral process.
