Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher said on Sunday that his party has no objection to the next general election taking place in February 2025, but will reject any flawed or manipulated process.
Speaking at a Dhaka event titled “National Unity Essential for National Security,” he addressed leaders from political parties and civil society, gathered under the FSDS banner.
“We have no issue with the election being held in February,” Taher said. “But let me be clear. If it’s a flawed election, we will not accept it.”
Concerns Over Misinterpretation
Taher said Jamaat’s position is often misrepresented.
“When we say we don’t want a flawed election, that doesn’t mean we oppose elections,” he said. “Some are using this line to cast suspicion on our intent.”
He added that his party has consistently rejected any election that lacks legitimacy or transparency.
“If anyone wants a farcical election, we’re not with them. And those who have done that before, we’ve rejected them too.”
He warned that repeating past mistakes could derail progress.
“If another flawed election happens, the opportunity for justice and reform will be lost.”
Call for Dialogue and Consensus
Taher urged all political forces to engage in discussions on how to ensure a credible process.
“There will always be differences in party agendas,” he said. “But if we sit down and talk, we can sort out our disagreements.”
He reaffirmed Jamaat’s backing of the proportional representation system and called for local elections to be held under neutral supervision.
“That’s our position. Others have theirs. But having different views shouldn’t be taken as proof that someone is trying to undermine elections,” he added. “Sometimes, that kind of accusation is the real problem.”
Broad Participation at the Event
When names like Mirza Fakhrul, Manna, and Shahidul Alam gather, you know it’s serious. The talk? Where the country goes from here.
The big picture: how things like national unity, trustworthy elections, and real political dialogue are all essential if Bangladesh is going to have a stable future.