Jamaat discipline faces test as party expands

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, long known for its disciplined cadre-based organisational structure, is facing growing internal challenges as it seeks to expand its electoral footprint following the country's change in political landscape after July Uprising.

The party's constitution prohibits members from seeking nominations, campaigning for party positions or publicly expressing interest in contesting elections without approval. For decades, these rules helped Jamaat maintain strict organisational discipline. However, party leaders and political observers say increasing electoral prospects have intensified competition among aspiring candidates.

According to party sources, enthusiasm at the grassroots has grown significantly following the party's improved parliamentary performance. As preparations for upcoming local government elections gather pace, competition for nominations has reportedly intensified in several districts. In some areas, prospective candidates have begun introducing themselves as likely chairmen or local representatives before receiving official endorsement, while campaign posters promoting individuals have appeared without central approval.

The party encountered similar disciplinary challenges during the parliamentary election. Three candidates allegedly ignored instructions from the central leadership to withdraw from the race. In response, Jamaat expelled the candidates, dissolved its district committees in Sunamganj and Narsingdi, and took disciplinary action against local leaders. More recently, Magura district Ameer MB Baker was relieved of his responsibilities over election-related disciplinary issues.

Jamaat Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has publicly warned party workers against pursuing public office for personal ambition. Addressing activists in Rangpur in May, he said anyone who considers becoming a public representative as a personal objective loses the qualities expected of a worker in the Islamic movement.

Several senior leaders, speaking anonymously, acknowledged that the party's rapid expansion has brought new organisational pressures. They said many newcomers now view Jamaat as a viable electoral platform rather than joining primarily for ideological reasons, making it increasingly difficult to preserve the party's traditional organisational culture.

Leaders also noted that the party's rapid growth has affected its traditionally rigorous membership process, under which full membership required years of ideological training and organisational work. Some recent campaign activists are now seeking local government nominations despite limited organisational experience.

Abdul Halim, member secretary of Jamaat's Election Management Committee, said the parliamentary election had exposed organisational weaknesses but insisted that discipline would be strictly enforced during the local government polls. Although the elections are officially non-partisan, he said the party would back only one candidate for each position, and anyone defying that decision would face disciplinary measures.

Political analysts say Jamaat is navigating a challenge common to expanding political parties balancing organisational discipline with broader electoral ambitions. While a wider support base may strengthen its electoral prospects, it also increases the risk of internal competition and factionalism.

Jamaat Assistant Secretary General Ehsanul Mahbub Zubair said the party had already demonstrated its commitment to discipline by expelling rebel candidates and dissolving district committees. There will be no compromise on organisational discipline, he said.

Echoing that position, Nayeb-e-Ameer Dr Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher acknowledged that political ambition is natural but said the party would never allow personal interests to override its organisational principles.

As Jamaat prepares for the local government elections, its ability to maintain internal discipline while accommodating rapid organisational growth may prove critical to its future political trajectory.