Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has issued a show-cause notice to its central Majlis-e-Shura member and former Member of Parliament, Shahjahan Chowdhury, following his controversial remarks regarding control over the civil administration. The notice, issued on Monday by the party’s Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar, demands a written explanation within seven days.
The disciplinary action comes in response to a speech delivered by Shahjahan Chowdhury on Saturday at an election coordination meeting at the GEC Convention Hall in Chattogram. His comments, which went viral on social media, drew sharp criticism for advocating the politicization of law enforcement and government officials.
Violation of Discipline
The notice explicitly reprimanded Shahjahan Chowdhury for failing to correct his conduct despite previous warnings.
“You have previously made statements that damaged the organizational image and violated discipline,” the notice read. “As a result, you were warned and advised multiple times. Even the Amir of Jamaat called you, drew your attention to this, and warned you. Despite this, no change is being observed in you.”
The letter highlighted that his recent speech—claiming that the administration must “sit and stand” at the party’s command—has severely tarnished the organization’s image and contradicts the party’s constitution, policy, and ideals.
Diplomatic and Public Backlash
The show-cause notice revealed that the party has faced backlash not only from the public but also from diplomatic circles.
“Deep concern and strong condemnation have been received from various levels of the administration regarding this statement,” the notice stated. “Reactions have also been expressed directly by the country’s diplomatic community.”
The party leadership clarified its stance in the letter, asserting that they believe the administration should perform its duties with full professionalism and neutrality, without political interference.
The Controversial Speech
During the event on Saturday, where Jamaat Amir Shafiqur Rahman was the chief guest, Shahjahan Chowdhury made sweeping demands regarding the local administration in upcoming elections.
“Election is not just about the people,” Shahjahan Chowdhury had said. “Those in the administration within each constituency must be brought under our control. They will stand at our command, sit at our command, arrest at our command, and file cases at our command.”
He further directed that primary and high school teachers must campaign for the party and that police officers, including Officers-in-Charge (OCs), should follow party leaders and provide protocol.
Next Steps
Shahjahan Chowdhury has been directed to explain why organizational action should not be taken against him. If a satisfactory response is not received within the seven-day deadline, the party has stated it will proceed with further disciplinary decisions according to its constitution.
