Leader of the Opposition and Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, has expressed concern over the country's economic challenges, rising commodity prices, instability in the banking sector, and what he described as growing social disorder.
Addressing a gathering at a convention center in Mirpur, Dhaka, on Wednesday evening, he said that pressing public issues, including shortages of gas and water, inadequate communication infrastructure, drug abuse, juvenile crime, extortion, and illegal land occupation, must be addressed through effective measures to prevent the situation from worsening.
Dr. Rahman criticized repeated increases in fuel and gas prices, arguing that such hikes directly contribute to rising costs of essential goods and place an additional burden on ordinary citizens.
He stressed that the government should openly communicate economic realities to the public rather than relying on what he termed administrative tactics or secrecy.
Expressing concern over developments in the banking sector, he said uncertainty among depositors and shareholders of several financial institutions could undermine confidence in the economy if left unresolved. He urged the authorities to safeguard public deposits and ensure financial stability.
The opposition leader also highlighted the importance of remittances, describing overseas earnings as one of the key pillars of the national economy. He warned that any decline in confidence among expatriate Bangladeshis could negatively affect remittance inflows and the country's overall economic outlook.
Speaking on governance issues, Dr. Rahman condemned extortion, corruption, and the abuse of power, saying that political commitment and firm action are essential to eliminate such practices. He pledged that his party would continue to oppose policies that harm public interests and stand in support of citizens' rights.
Referring to moral and religious values, he said that a system based on justice, accountability, and human dignity would benefit people of all faiths and backgrounds. He further emphasized that the state must ensure citizens' basic rights and security before imposing punitive measures for criminal offenses.
Concluding his speech, Dr. Rahman called for national unity, justice, and social harmony, expressing hope for a peaceful, prosperous, and stable Bangladesh.
Local leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami from Kafrul and Mirpur were also present at the event.
