Demands can turn into single-point movement at any time: Jamaat ameer

The eight-point demands of the Jamaat-e-Islami-led opposition alliance can turn into a single-point movement at any time, Jamaat Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has warned.

The bloc had been organising a series of long marches over its demands, the opposition leader said at the opening rally of the alliance’s Dhaka–Rangpur long march at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital this morning (19 September). 

The opposition alliance is holding the long march with demands including implementation of the 12 February referendum mandate, trial of those responsible for the July killings and an end to shortages of electricity, fuel, gas and fertiliser.

It is also demanding measures to curb rising prices of essential goods, corruption, extortion and land grabbing, improve law and order, end partisan practices and implement the Teesta Master Plan.

A long march in Chattogram had already been successfully held, which had “made many people angry”, Shafiqur remarked. 

“We have seen some signs of that anger in the capital over the past two days,” he said. “We would urge you not to lose your temper out of frustration. Instead, try to accept the demands of the people.”

Shafiqur said the current eight-point programme could be expanded. 

“Today it is eight points. Remember, it could become nine points or 10 points. And if the nation needs it, it could turn into a single-point demand at any time,” he added. 

“When it becomes a single-point demand, the situation will become very serious. Before facing such a situation, learn from the recent past. Learn from it and accept the people’s demands.” 

He continued, “If you fail to accept the demands, let me make it clear – threats will not work. We will not care about anything.” 

The opposition coalition had taken to the streets with the demands of 18 crore people, Shafiqur said, adding that those people were with the Jamaat-led parties. 

“We will return home only after securing those demands,” the Jamaat chief said.