Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Dr Shafiqur Rahman hosts an Iftar programme for diplomats and dignitaries at the Westin Hotel in Dhaka on Saturday. – Screengrab

Dr Shafiqur Rahman, Amir of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, iterated his party’s strong support for adopting a proportional representation electoral system in Bangladesh.

He came up with the stance during an Iftar programme for diplomats and dignitaries at the Westin Hotel in Dhaka on Saturday, March 8.

“We firmly believe this system will truly reflect the people’s will and prevent the return of fascist rule,” he said.

He also called for the inclusion of millions of expatriate Bangladeshis in the voter list, emphasising their right to have a voice. “We hope the interim government will heed our demands and take necessary action,” he added.

Shafiqur opened his address with gratitude, marking the event’s significance. “First, we thank Almighty Allah for granting us this opportunity after 11 long years. Jamaat-e-Islami has a tradition of hosting Iftar gatherings for our foreign friends, but since 2014, the Awami League government barred us from doing so. Despite booking venues and inviting guests, we were forced to cancel due to restrictions.”

“Today, we welcome you once more to this dignified gathering and express our deep gratitude to Allah. We also honor the martyrs and oppressed of the July Revolution, whose sacrifices have liberated Bangladesh for a second time,” he said.

Reflecting on Ramadan’s broader meaning, he said, “This is not just a month of fasting—it’s a time for self-purification, restraint, and dedication. By fasting, we feel the pain of the poor and needy, sowing seeds of compassion in our hearts. Abstaining from food and drink from dawn to dusk is more than a physical act; it purifies the soul, strengthens our bond with Allah, and renews our commitment to justice.”

Highlighting the need for democracy in Bangladesh, Dr Shafiqur stressed tolerance and harmony among political factions. “Since its founding, Jamaat-e-Islami has been dedicated to the democratic process. We played a key role in the 1990s anti-dictatorship movement and championed the caretaker government system to ensure free, fair, and credible elections, rallying public support for it.”

However, he accused the Awami League of 15 years of oppressive rule. “They tried every means to crush Jamaat—hanging five of our top leaders, brutally killing six others in prison or custody, murdering thousands of our leaders and activists, disappearing many, and leaving others permanently disabled.”

Despite this, he said, “Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing, Islami Chhatra Shibir, played a historic role in the July Revolution. In its aftermath, our members helped maintain law and order, protect religious sites, and safeguard the lives and property of ordinary citizens.”

Shafiqur welcomed the interim government’s reform efforts, noting that Jamaat has offered suggestions to strengthen state institutions. “To ensure Bangladesh never veers off course again, we need a fair political system for lasting peace and development. Every citizen’s voice must matter, every community must be represented, and everyone must have equal opportunities to build this nation.”

Reaffirming Jamaat’s stance, he said, “We believe there’s no majority or minority in Bangladesh—every citizen has equal rights. Islam teaches us that diversity is a blessing, and only an inclusive system can create a just and prosperous country. That’s why we advocate for proportional representation and the inclusion of expatriates in the electoral process.”