Hifazat-e-Islam congratulates Islami Andolan for cutting ties with Jamaat-e-Islami

Hifazat-e-Islam Bangladesh chief Allama Shah Muhibullah Babunagari has congratulated Islami Andolan Bangladesh and its chief Mufti Syed Rezaul Karim for severing ties with the Jamaat-e-Islami alliance ahead of the upcoming national election.

The statement, signed by Muhibullah, was sent to the media at 3pm on Wednesday.

Hifazat-e-Islam Joint Secretary General Maulana Azizul Haque Islamabadi confirmed the release of the statement to agencies.

In his statement, Muhibullah praised Karim for his “courageous decision” to distance Islami Andolan from the “Maududist Jamaat,” which he claimed was undermining the creed of the “Ahl-e Sunnat wal-Jamaat”.

“We, on behalf of Hifazat-e-Islam, have long advocated for greater unity among Islamists in Bangladesh. On Aug 5, 2024, under the guidance of Ulama-e-Karam, who uphold the true creed, we emphasised the need to exclude Maududist Jamaat from such alliances. We have consistently warned against forming political alliances that compromise faith and creed,” Muhibullah said.

He further added, “Alhamdulillah! I congratulate Islami Andolan Bangladesh for charting an independent political path, free from the influence of Maududist Jamaat. This single, principled path is essential for the future of Islamist politics in Bangladesh. The party’s decision will prevent significant damage to Islamism in the country, Allah willing.”

Despite this endorsement, Muhibullah clarified that Hifazat-e-Islam would not support any party in the upcoming election, as has been its practice in the past. “I am hopeful that the electorate will vote for those who embrace pure Islamism,” he stated.

He also issued a warning to those promoting “Maududism and other false beliefs” under the guise of Islam, urging them to refrain from participating in the election.

At the same time, he called upon followers of Ahl-e-Sunnat wal-Jamaat, to remain steadfast and follow the principles of true Islam in the polls.