Jamaat pledges business protection, end to red tape and extortion

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has pledged to protect businesses and eliminate bureaucratic red tape and extortion if it comes to power, party Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman said at a dialogue with business leaders held ahead of the national election.

The dialogue, titled "Strategic Thoughts for Industry and Trade of Bangladesh," was organised on Thursday night at a city hotel in Banani to exchange views on fostering sustainable growth and building a globally competitive business ecosystem. Addressing the programme as the chief guest, Dr Rahman said Jamaat would work to create a business-friendly environment by dismantling administrative bottlenecks and curbing extortion. He said many entrepreneurs refrain from investing despite having capacity and resources due to insecurity, bureaucratic hurdles, and lack of policy support. If entrusted with state responsibility, Jamaat would act as a "guardian" for businesspeople and ensure an extortion-free and harassment-free environment, he said, adding that the party aims to bring people back to lawful and ethical economic activities.

Emphasising unity in nation-building, the Jamaat Ameer said there would be no discrimination among the country's people and urged business owners to maintain humane and respectful relations with workers.

He also criticised illicit wealth accumulation and capital flight, alleging that beneficiaries of rent-seeking practices had transferred assets abroad. He said accountability would be ensured through lawful means if Jamaat assumes office.

Business leaders at the dialogue raised concerns over excessive bureaucratic control, saying administrative reform is essential as officials often act as de facto decision-makers. They also highlighted the lack of industrial protection and policy support, urging the next government to prioritise these issues.

BARVIDA President Abdul Haque said reforms are necessary to bring change and called for identifying and holding accountable those involved in money laundering. He also urged political parties to place clear and credible commitments before the business community.

Among the participants were International Chamber of Commerce (Bangladesh) President Mahbubur Rahman, Bangladesh Chamber of Industries President Anwar Ul Alam Parvez, former FBCCI presidents Mir Nasir Hossain and A K Azad, former Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Asif Ibrahim, former BKMEA president Fazlu Huq, Meghna Group Chairman Mostafa Kamal, and AKIJ Group Chairman SK Nasir Uddin.