Vote will be for freedom, not slavery: Jamaat Ameer Dr. Shafiqul Islam in Pabna rally

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqul Islam on Saturday said the upcoming national election would be a choice between freedom and oppression, calling on voters to reject what he described as a fascist political culture.

Speaking at an election rally in Pabna, he said, “The vote will be for freedom, not for slavery. If the people’s mandate is not implemented, fascism will continue even if a government is formed.”

Referring to past political violence, Dr. Shafiqul Islam said Jamaat leaders had faced killings and repression, adding that the party had endured years of political pressure but continued its activities.

“We were oppressed for more than 15 years, yet Jamaat-e-Islami has survived. There is no example of extortionists, land grabbers, or corrupt individuals among our workers,” he claimed.

He said Jamaat aims to reduce public suffering by prioritizing justice and accountability. “If we come to power, no one—whether president or prime minister—will be above justice,” he said, adding that corruption and extortion would not be tolerated.

Dr. Shafiqul Islam also called for unity among political forces, saying a broader alliance was necessary to rebuild the country. He urged voters in Pabna to support Jamaat-backed candidates, promising development if the party secures seats in parliament.

Later, he formally introduced five Jamaat-e-Islami candidates from Pabna and handed over their election symbols.

The rally was held on Saturday afternoon at the Edward College ground in Pabna following the allocation of election symbols under the slogan “Let’s Build Bangladesh” by the 10-party alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami.

The event was chaired by Pabna district Jamaat Ameer and Pabna-4 constituency candidate Maulana Abu Taleb Mandal. Central Assistant Secretary General Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan attended as a special guest.

In his speech, Rafiqul Islam Khan said the party envisions a Bangladesh free from corruption and extortion. He claimed that Jamaat-e-Islami would not allow what he termed “corrupt forces” to influence the election process.

Several Jamaat leaders at the rally criticised BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, accusing him of remaining abroad during periods of political repression. They also alleged that many candidates from rival parties are loan defaulters, warning of financial mismanagement if such leaders come to power.

These statements reflect the party’s political position and were made as part of campaign rhetoric.

The Edward College ground saw a large gathering, with thousands of Jamaat-e-Islami leaders, activists, and supporters attending the rally from different parts of the district and beyond.