Islami Andolan Bangladesh (IAB) is reaffirming its commitment to the 'one-box policy' as it accelerates preparations for the 13th National Parliamentary Election. The move comes amid ongoing negotiations on seat-sharing among Islamist parties, with the party emphasising unity, strategic compromise, and representation in the upcoming polls.
Unity Without Jamaat
An alliance of 11 parties, including most Islamic parties, was initially formed for the election. However, Islami Andolan Bangladesh showed reluctance to accept compromises that fell short of its demands. While the party reportedly sought around 100 seats, Jamaat-e-Islami offered only 35-40. In response, the five main Islamist parties-Islami Andolan, Khilafat-e-Majlis, Bangladesh Khilafat-e-Majlis, Bangladesh Khilafat Andolan, and Nezami Islam Party-are now preparing to contest jointly, excluding Jamaat.
Under the 'one-box' framework, only one party will stand for a given seat, ensuring unified representation. Six additional smaller parties have also expressed interest in joining the alliance, further broadening the coalition.
Historical Context
The Khilafat Majlis first proposed the one-box policy on September 17, 2023, at the National Press Club to unite Islamist forces. On December 28, 2024, at the 12th General Assembly session at historic Suhrawardy Udyan, party leaders emphasized national unity and the protection of Bangladesh's independence and sovereignty, reinforcing the need for a consolidated approach.
Official Statements and Party Leaders' Remarks
At an emergency meeting on Wednesday, IAB's joint secretary general and spokesperson Maulana Gazi Ataur Rahman confirmed that discussions on the one-box policy are ongoing and that the framework and implementation guidelines will be finalized soon.
"After the July coup, Charmonai Pir announced the one-box policy for the country's Islamists, which is in the interest of both the nation and Islam. InshaAllah, the structure and shape of the policy will be finalized soon," he said.
He added, "The interest in the one-box policy among political circles, journalists, and patriotic people is inspiring. It carries a positive message for the country, and InshaAllah, the expectations of the nation will be fulfilled."
The press conference was presided over by IAB Ameer and Charmonai Pir Mufti Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim, alongside senior party leaders including Mufti Syed Muhammad Faizul Karim, Maulana Mosaddek Billah Al Madani, Principal Yunus Ahmed, Maulana Gazi Ataur Rahman, Engineer Ashraful Alam, Maulana Sheikh Fazle Bari Masood, KM Atiqur Rahman, and Maulana Ahmed Abdul Qayyum.
Election Strategy and Seat Discussions
IAB Secretary General Principal Hafez Maulana Yunus Ahmed explained that if the agreement with allied parties fails, IAB is prepared to contest independently in all 268 seats. "These five main parties formed our original alliance; later, others joined. Discussions are still ongoing, and mutual agreements will guide our final decisions," he said.
Meanwhile, a press conference by the 11-party alliance, including Jamaat-e-Islami, was postponed due to unresolved issues in seat negotiations. Alliance coordinator Hamidur Rahman Azad confirmed the delay but emphasized that discussions are continuing based on mutual understanding and the one-box principle.
Khilafat Majlis Emphasizes Law, Order, and Fair Elections
In an emergency session of its central shura, Khilafat Majlis leaders highlighted the importance of maintaining alliance unity and implementing the one-box policy. They also criticized the government's law and order situation, citing persistent crime, unaccounted looted firearms, inadequate intelligence, political violence, and the flow of black money as factors undermining the electoral environment.
The party urged the Election Commission to ensure fair law enforcement and strict adherence to the electoral code of conduct. Senior leaders emphasized that fair seat sharing and unity among Islamist parties are essential to meet national expectations.
Looking Ahead
Maulana Gazi Ataur Rahman stated that the one-box policy is more than party solidarity; it is a strategic framework to unite Islamist forces in Bangladesh's elections. He expressed optimism that implementation and election preparations will proceed effectively once mutual agreements are finalized, setting an example of compromise and unity for the country's Islamist political landscape.
Jamaat-e-Islami's Assistant Secretary General Hamidur Rahman Azad said, "Discussions on the 11-party seat agreement are ongoing. Some issues remain unresolved, but a final decision will be announced once talks conclude."
