Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, has alleged that the government is attempting to establish a one-party system by appointing loyalists to key positions in banks, universities, local government institutions and other state bodies.
Speaking as the chief guest at a large workers’ conference organized by Jamaat-e-Islami Narayanganj Metropolitan Unit at the Narayanganj Central Eidgah Ground on Friday, Dr. Shafiqur claimed that the government was gradually consolidating control over major institutions through partisan appointments.
“The government is placing party loyalists in banks, educational institutions, vice-chancellors’ offices and district councils in an effort to establish one-party rule. But the people of Bangladesh will never accept such a system,” he said.
During the event, Dr. Shafiqur formally introduced Maulana Abdul Jabbar, Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Narayanganj Metropolitan, as the party’s candidate for the upcoming Narayanganj City Corporation mayoral election. He also called for immediate elections to city corporations and other local government institutions, arguing that they should be run by representatives elected directly by the people.
The opposition leader criticized what he described as the government’s attitude toward opposition parties, saying previous governments had attempted to marginalize political rivals and that similar tendencies continue today.
Addressing the audience, he urged the government to pay attention to the aspirations of young people and avoid repeating the mistakes of past administrations. He warned that ignoring public opinion and attempting to govern through political domination could provoke strong resistance from citizens.
Referring to the recent national election and referendum debates, Dr. Shafiqur claimed that public support for reform proposals had been significant and argued that the government should respect the will of voters. He alleged that if vote counting had been conducted as fairly as polling day itself, opposition-backed candidates would have secured additional victories.
The Jamaat chief also criticized the government's anti-corruption efforts, alleging that corruption, extortion and political influence have increased rather than declined. He said ordinary citizens and businesspeople continue to suffer from insecurity and harassment.
Speaking specifically about Narayanganj, once known as the “Dundee of the East” for its industrial importance, Dr. Shafiqur said the district had lost much of its former prestige. He alleged that extortion and criminal activities have negatively affected the local business environment and created fear among entrepreneurs.
He further referred to the long-standing demand for justice in the murder of cultural activist Taqi, questioning why the case remains unresolved. According to him, many residents still feel deprived of justice and accountability.
Promising a different approach to local governance, Dr. Shafiqur described mayoral candidate Abdul Jabbar as a leader committed to public welfare, transparency and accountability. He expressed confidence that voters would support honest and competent candidates if elections are conducted freely and fairly.
