Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, the Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has stated that the current state of the country does not reflect the dreams for which the martyrs of the Liberation War sacrificed their lives. He remarked that if his brother, who was a martyr of the 1971 war, could see the current situation of the country, he might not have participated in the struggle for independence.
He made these remarks as the chief guest at an election rally organized by the 11-party alliance at the Habiganj New Field at 11:00 am on Saturday (February 7).
Dreams of Martyrs Unfulfilled
Addressing the audience, which included war veterans and their descendants, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said, “I am also a member of a martyred freedom fighter’s family. My brother gave his life for this country. I believe that if he saw the picture of today’s Bangladesh, he might not have participated in the Liberation War that day.”
He questioned the respect shown by the nation’s political leadership toward those who sacrificed their lives. “They dreamed of a Bangladesh based on justice and equality, where children would receive a proper education and the people would achieve economic freedom. But none of that happened. Is the common man responsible for this? Certainly not,” he added.
Leadership Crisis and Corruption
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman attributed the country’s stagnation to “dishonest leadership.” While acknowledging that past governments may have some achievements, he emphasized that they must also take responsibility for their misdeeds.
“It has been 54 years since independence—a sufficient time for a nation to stand tall. Vietnam gained independence long after us and emerged from civil war to become an enviable role model for development. Yet, we see no positive change in Bangladesh.”
He further lamented the prevailing social conditions, noting:
- Insecurity: Mothers are not safe at home or in their workplaces.
- Extortion and Litigation: Innocent people are living in constant fear of extortionists and false cases.
- Systemic Corruption: Corruption has permeated every level of society.
Alliance Candidates Introduced
The rally was presided over by the District Jamaat Ameer, Maulana Kazi Mukhlishur Rahman, and moderated by the Secretary and candidate for the Habiganj-3 constituency, Kazi Mohsin Ahmed. During the event, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman introduced the 11-party alliance candidates for the four constituencies in Habiganj district.
