Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, emphasized the urgent need for democracy in Bangladesh during an Iftar event honoring foreign diplomats in Dhaka on Saturday (March 8). He stated that the current interim government has initiated reforms in various state structures to ensure the country does not lose its way again. Jamaat-e-Islami has welcomed these reform efforts and provided recommendations to strengthen democratic practices.

Addressing diplomats at the Westin Hotel, Dr. Rahman said, "Democracy is essential for fostering tolerance and mutual respect among political forces in Bangladesh." He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to host the Iftar, a tradition Jamaat-e-Islami had maintained for years but was restricted from organizing since 2014 due to government interference.

Dr. Rahman highlighted the significance of Ramadan as a time for self-purification, empathy, and unity. He noted that fasting fosters compassion for the less fortunate and strengthens one’s connection with Allah. He also underscored the importance of the Quran, revealed during Ramadan, as a guide for humanity and a source of mercy.

Reflecting on Jamaat-e-Islami’s role in Bangladesh’s political history, Dr. Rahman mentioned the party’s commitment to democratic processes since its inception. He recalled its active participation in the anti-autocracy movement of the 1990s and its advocacy for a caretaker government system to ensure free and fair elections. However, he lamented the persecution faced by Jamaat leaders and activists over the past 15 years, including executions, imprisonments, and enforced disappearances.

Despite these challenges, Dr. Rahman praised Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing, Islami Chhatra Shibir, for their contributions to the July Revolution and subsequent efforts to maintain law and order, protect religious institutions, and safeguard citizens’ lives and property. He reiterated the party’s support for a proportional representation-based electoral system to reflect public opinion accurately and prevent the resurgence of fascism.

Dr. Rahman also called for the inclusion of millions of expatriate Bangladeshis in the voter list, emphasizing their right to participate in the nation’s democratic process. He stressed the importance of an inclusive political system that ensures equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their background.

The Iftar event was attended by diplomats from various countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, China, Russia, Australia, the European Union, Iran, Turkey, Pakistan, and others. Dr. Rahman expressed his gratitude for their presence, highlighting the importance of strengthening international friendships and dialogue.

Among the Jamaat-e-Islami leaders present were Dr. Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher, Anwar Shamul Islam, Professor Mia Golam Parwar, Maulana ATM Masum, and others. The event underscored Jamaat-e-Islami’s commitment to democratic values, inclusive governance, and the promotion of peace and justice in Bangladesh.