If Islamic Bank’s existence is threatened, Bangladesh’s economy will collapse: Jamaat ameer

The Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and opposition leader Md Shafiqur Rahman expressed concern over the banking sector, warning that any threat to Islamic Bank could seriously affect Bangladesh’s economy.

Fresh “interference” has begun at Islamic Bank after control over Bangladesh Bank, he said while speaking as the chief guest at a national seminar at Institute of Diploma Engineers in Dhaka today (13 April).

The seminar, titled “Government against referendum verdict: country faces crisis”, was organised by an alliance of 11 parties and discussed the political crisis over implementing the referendum verdict.

He said, the bank alone collects 32% of the country’s remittances, and any risk to its existence would severely affect the economy.

Urging that banks remain free from political influence, he said, “Do not politicise these banks. If you do, the people will not spare you.”

The Jamaat ameer said their movement aims for broader change beyond politics. “This fight is not only for political change but for fundamental cultural change. Wherever negative practices exist – in banking, the economy, education or the legal system – we will resist them with the people,” he said.

Referring to protests over the implementation of the referendum verdict, he said movements have already started across the country. “This is a justified movement. We will return home with success,” he added.

He also said the current government and parliament are the result of the “July Uprising”.

“Without July, there would be no government or opposition,” he said, warning that the government would not survive if it takes a position against it.