From DUCSU to JOCSU, ‘New History’ Announced on 12th: Jamaat Ameer’s Heartfelt Message in Chittagong

Referring to the recent trend of student politics from Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) to Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JUCSU), Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said, “It started with DUCSU, and stopped at JOCSU for the time being. History will be created on the 12th.” He claimed that the message of change that has come from the educational arena will also be reflected in national politics.

He made these remarks while addressing an election rally organized at Sitakunda Government High School grounds in Chittagong on Sunday afternoon as the chief guest. A large number of leaders, activists and supporters were present at the rally organized by Chittagong North District Jamaat-e-Islami. At the beginning of his speech, he addressed the crowd in the local language and said, “Anara gham aachon ni (Are you well)?”—which instantly brought the rally to life.

Regarding voting rights, the Jamaat Amir said, “The slogan of fascism was – I will cast my vote, I will cast your vote too. Those days are over. I will cast my vote, you cast yours. But if you come to take away my vote, I will crush your hands.” His statement made clear his strong stance in protecting voting rights.

Highlighting women’s respect and anti-corruption stance, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said, “Mothers are the crown of our heads. We must give them the highest respect.” He alleged that propaganda is being spread against him because he speaks against corruption, but it will not benefit him – rather, those involved in propaganda will be the ones who will suffer.

Regarding power politics, he said, Jamaat-e-Islami does not do politics of coming to power; their goal is to empower 180 million people. “We do not want the rule of a party government, a dynasty. We want a government of 180 million people,” he said. He also called for bringing an 11-party alliance to power if they want to see a ‘new Bangladesh’ from the 13th.

In his assessment of the development of the last 54 years, the Jamaat Amir said that it is wrong to say that there has been no development in the country. However, the development has been less than the potential, because the promises made before the elections have been forgotten after the elections. Recalling the slogan of the July movement, he said, “We Want Justice—You take your dues, give me my dues.”

Citing the example of student politics, he said that in the elections of five universities, the country’s highly educated students have clearly stated that they are not in favor of extortionists. He also commented that those who want to buy votes with money are a disgrace to the name of humanity.

At the end of his speech, the Jamaat Amir introduced the candidates for the seven parliamentary constituencies of Chittagong North. The message of voting rights, justice and people’s empowerment dominated his speech throughout the public meeting, which has given rise to new discussions in the upcoming political context.