AL should not be allowed back into politics just to boost political numbers: Shafiqur

Highlights:

• AL showed no remorse over killings and enforced disappearances
• Bringing AL back now would be wrong
• Government must ensure law and order
• July Charter must reflect 70% public verdict
• Jamaat will continue constructive opposition role in parliament

The Awami League — whose political activities are currently banned — should not be allowed to return to politics simply to boost political numbers as it has yet to express remorse for killings and enforced disappearances, Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman said today (7 August).

Speaking at an exchange meeting with reporters at the Bagerhat Circuit House, he questioned whether the party should be allowed to resume political activities at this stage.

“We do not think they should return to politics now. They destroyed the country’s political culture and established a reign of terror. Many mothers lost their children, many people were subjected to enforced disappearance, and not all of those who disappeared have returned. In this situation, should the Awami League return to politics now?” he said.

Shafiqur, also the opposition leader, said the Awami League had shown no remorse for killings, enforced disappearances and violence committed during its time in power.

“A party that made so many people disappear, killed so many, crippled countless others and turned itself against an entire generation has shown no remorse. Bringing them back into politics simply to boost political numbers would be wrong and a heinous act,” he added.

On the government’s role, the Jamaat chief said maintaining law and order was its responsibility.

“The better the government handles this responsibility, the better the country will be run. We are cooperating in parliament where cooperation is needed, and opposing where opposition is necessary,” he added.

On the July Charter, Shafiqur said differences remained over the issue but insisted that the verdict of 70% of the country’s people must be respected.

“The verdict of 70% of the country’s people must be respected. We will not allow it to be disregarded or insulted under any circumstances,” he added.

Responding to a question about Jamaat’s role in parliament, he said the party would continue to play a constructive role as the opposition.

“In the past, parliament witnessed physical altercations, files being thrown and abusive language. We do not want that kind of parliament. We want a parliament befitting a civilised society. From the very first day, we have played a constructive role as the opposition, and we will continue to do so. We will not be provoked into abandoning that position,” he mentioned.