Amir of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said, we have no intention to dismiss or remove any political party. He made this comment in an interview given to Kolkata-based Indian media Anandabazar on Friday (November 22).
In response to a question about the plan to create a new political force by leaving out both the Awami League and the BNP, Shafiqur Rahman said, I want to say frankly, there is no basis for this theory. The public's collective hatred of the Awami League was fueled by corruption and fascist policies. They brought about their own downfall. We do not need to play any role in moving an organization or group. People know everything. We respect their collective wisdom. All I can say is that we have no intention of dismissing or eliminating any political party.
Shafiqur Rahman denied the accusations of opposition to India and said in an interview that Jamaat-e-Islami's accusations of anti-India are completely baseless. This idea has been spread by deliberately targeting us. We want to maintain relations with neighboring countries including India on the basis of mutual trust and coexistence.
When asked about the character of Jamaat-e-Islami in the interview, he said, Jamaat is a modern, liberal and democratic party, which is based on Islamic ideals. Our political policies are rational and moderate. We are not part of any international organization.
Regarding allegations of violence against minority communities in Bangladesh, he said, Jamaat does not believe in division based on minorities or majorities. We treat every citizen with equal dignity and have good relations with the minority Hindu community.
In response to a question about how India-Bangladesh relations would be if he came to the government, he said, “We want to develop close relations with India, but it should be on the basis of mutual respect and equality.” Realized and effective relations are beneficial for both countries.
