Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Monday said democracy will regain its institutional shape only if the ruling and opposition parties work together with responsibility and accountability.
"There is no alternative to restoring institutional democracy. We must return to that path," he said before a meeting with the party's newly elected MPs at Al-Falah Auditorium in Mogbazar, Dhaka. "It is not easy. There are challenges ahead. But if both sides act sincerely, InshaAllah, we can succeed."
Dr. Shafiq said the country's institutional foundations have been weakened over time and stressed that the ruling party bears greater responsibility in rebuilding them. "If they take the lead, it will be possible to revive the state organs that have become ineffective," he said.
Pointing to disorder in the judiciary and other sectors, he pledged that Jamaat would act as a responsible opposition. "We will stand with the people. Protecting public interest means protecting national interest. We will perform our duties with vigilance," he said.
He said the 11-party alliance would serve as an effective opposition in parliament, calling for a culture of constructive politics. "In civilised democracies, the ruling and opposition parties function as two pillars of parliament. We want that culture here. The opposition must have the right to speak, and the government must fulfil its responsibilities. We will uphold our moral duty."
Assuring cooperation, he said Jamaat would work with the government on issues of national interest. "If law and order are upheld, justice ensured, rights protected and syndicates dismantled, we will extend full support," he said, adding that the party would act in line with the spirit and aspirations of July.
Recalling the July Uprising, he warned against repeating past mistakes. "If parliament reflects the lessons of July, it will meet public expectations. If we forget them, similar crises may return. We do not want that."
Dr. Shafiq thanked voters for their support and pledged that Jamaat would play its opposition role with sincerity. "Citizens stood by us; we will stand by them-in good times and bad."
He expressed hope that collective efforts would strengthen democracy, restore stability, and create opportunities for youth leadership. Senior Jamaat leaders were present at the meeting.
