Government Ignoring Referendum Mandate; Jamaat Amir Alleges Imposition of Authoritarian Rule

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami and an opposition leader, has accused the government of attempting to impose authoritarian rule upon the people by failing to implement the mandate of a referendum. He made these remarks on Saturday (October 31) while addressing a rally in Naodoba, located in the Zajira Upazila of Shariatpur, as part of a 'long march' organized by an 11-party alliance.

Speaking at the rally—part of a long march heading toward Dhaka, Khulna, and Kushtia—Dr. Shafiqur Rahman stated that the government is failing to respect the verdict delivered by the people through their votes. He further remarked that the public is being insulted and deceived.

Outlining the 11-party alliance’s seven-point demand, the Jamaat Amir emphasized that the implementation of the referendum mandate is the primary demand. He expressed optimism that these demands could be met if the people remain united.

Referring to the 'July Movement,' he declared, "This nation has faced bullets with bare chests and empty hands. Such a nation will never bow its head to any form of injustice." He urged the public to remain united to ensure these demands are fulfilled.

Also present at the rally were Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar, Khelafat Majlis Amir Maulana Mamunul Haque, Secretary General Maulana Jalaluddin Ahmad, and other central and local leaders of the 11-party alliance.

The alliance’s seven-point demand includes the implementation of the referendum mandate, justice for the 'July genocide,' resolution of shortages in electricity, fuel, gas, and fertilizers, control over the prices of essential commodities, improvement of the law-and-order situation, an end to the politicization of state institutions, and the cessation of corruption, extortion, and illegal occupation. The 11-party alliance is conducting this long march to press for the realization of these demands.