Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has vowed to revitalize the country’s industrial sector, specifically mentioning the restoration of Carew & Co (Bangladesh) Ltd and other shuttered factories, if his party is voted to power.
Addressing an election rally at the Meherpur Government Boys’ High School ground on Monday afternoon (January 26), Dr. Shafiqur Rahman highlighted the decline of historic industrial giants.
“Carew & Co’s sugar mill was once one of the largest and most prominent sugar mills in the country. However, it currently stands virtually dysfunctional. We pledge—InshaAllah—to reactivate all closed mills, factories, and industrial enterprises,” he stated.
Zero Tolerance for Corruption and Looting
The Jamaat chief emphasized that the revival of these industries is tied directly to the elimination of financial crimes. He asserted that under a Jamaat-led administration:
- Theft and corruption will be completely eradicated.
- State resources will be protected from any form of looting.
- Wasteful spending will be halted to provide the necessary capital for industrial growth.
“When corruption and waste are stopped, mills and industrial plants will naturally find a new lease on life,” he added.
Focus on Employment and the Economy
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman framed the industrial revival as a solution to the country’s unemployment crisis. He noted that reopening factories would create numerous jobs, boost domestic production, and strengthen the national economy.
“We want employment, not unemployment. Our goal is to build a production-oriented economy to transform this country into a prosperous state,” the Ameer remarked.
Rehabilitation of Extortionists
In a notable part of his speech, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman addressed the issue of extortion in Meherpur. He claimed that even though Meherpur is a small district, it has fallen under the grip of extortionists.
Instead of mere suppression, he proposed a social rehabilitation plan: “If Jamaat comes to power by the people’s mandate, we will take responsibility for these individuals and provide them with legitimate employment so they no longer feel the need to engage in extortion.”
The Upcoming Referendum
Touching upon the electoral process, the Jamaat Ameer described the upcoming vote as a choice between two paths. “In this referendum, a ‘Yes’ vote signifies freedom, while a ‘No’ vote signifies servitude. Our first vote will be a ‘Yes’ vote. If everyone ensures a ‘Yes’ vote, the country will emerge victorious,” he concluded.
