Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has said that despite facing the highest level of repression over the past one and a half decades, Jamaat leaders and activists never resorted to revenge. He alleged that a group which suffered comparatively less oppression has now turned into a major oppressor.

Dr Shafiqur Rahman made the remarks on Saturday (January 24) while addressing an election rally in Ullapara of Sirajganj as the chief guest.

Highlighting the country’s political history, he said that no previous ruling force was free from corruption or misgovernance. However, Jamaat-e-Islami, despite having opportunities, never caused harm to others. “Over the last 15 years, our party has endured the most injustice, yet we did not engage in politics of retaliation. Unfortunately, those who were less victimised are now committing greater oppression,” he added.

Expressing frustration over the country’s development journey, the Jamaat chief remarked that whenever efforts are made to move the nation forward, certain groups deliberately pull it backward. He described such negative political practices as harmful to national progress.

Outlining his party’s future vision, Dr Shafiqur Rahman said that if Jamaat-e-Islami comes to power, extortion, fabricated cases, and illegal occupation will not be allowed anywhere across Bangladesh. Ensuring the safety of people’s lives and property, he said, would be the party’s top priority.

The rally was attended by a large crowd, where local Jamaat leaders also spoke, urging party activists to remain united and committed to maintaining peace and discipline.