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Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman today (Saturday) said his party would form an inclusive government involving all sections of people if it comes to power.
"If we get the opportunity to govern, Insha'Allah we will form a government taking everyone along. United efforts are needed to move the country forward," he said while addressing an election rally at Islamia Government College ground in Sirajganj district, BSS reports.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman said justice would be ensured for all irrespective of religion or ethnicity, adding that establishment of justice in the judicial system would accelerate the country's overall development.
He also pledged reforms in the health sector, saying a quality health policy would be implemented to improve public health if Jamaat comes to power.
Referring to recurring erosion by the Jamuna River, the Jamaat chief said people of Sirajganj suffer every year due to river erosion. "We will dredge the Jamuna River, strengthen its embankments and ensure proper river management to bring development to Sirajganj," he added.
He also promised initiatives to meet national demand by utilizing Sirajganj's milk production and vowed to work for the welfare of the distressed workers of the handloom-rich district.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman said Jamaat would not tolerate irregularities, corruption, theft or extortion. "We will not indulge in corruption, nor will we allow anyone to do so. Extortionists will be uprooted," he said, urging voters to boycott corrupt candidates in the upcoming election.
He further said that if Jamaat and the 10-party alliance come to power, women would be ensured security at home, workplaces and public spaces, alongside initiatives for their overall development.
Calling on voters to support the implementation of the July Memorandum, he urged people to vote in favour of 'Yes', saying it would pave the way for justice for the July martyrs, including the killing of Osman Hadi.
He alleged that those campaigning for 'No' would be identified as agents of Indian domination and called for showing a "red card" to such forces in the election.
The rally was organised by Sirajganj district Jamaat marking the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections. District Jamaat Ameer Maulana Shahinur Alam presided over the programme.
Assistant Secretary General of Jamaat and party-nominated candidate for Sirajganj-4 (Ullapara Salanga) seat Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan addressed the rally as special guest. Among others, 10-party alliance candidates Mufti Enayetullah Abdur Rauf for Sirajganj-3 (Tarash-Raiganj) and SM Saif Mustafiz for Sirajganj-5 (Shahjadpur) also spoke.
On the occasion, Jamaat-nominated candidates Principal Ali Alam for Sirajganj-5 (Belkuchi) and Maulana Md Zahidul Islam for Sirajganj-2 (Sadar-Kamarkhanda) also addressed.
Earlier from 10am, leaders and activists from different party units of Sirajganj Sadar and Kamarkhanda marched to the venue chanting slogans in favour of the party's election symbol.
By 2pm, the rally venue and surrounding areas were filled with people, with separate arrangements made for women at nearby grounds.
In his speech, Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan criticised rival political forces, saying those who undermine the significance of July would be rejected by the people. He also alleged corruption against opposition candidates, expressing confidence that voters of Sirajganj Sadar would choose Jamaat's symbol in the election.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman reached the stage around 3:30pm, began his speech at 3:43pm and concluded it at 4:12pm. After Asr prayers, he joined a roadside meeting in Ullapara in support of Jamaat-nominated candidate Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan.