Jamaat Chief Sees Student Poll Wins Shaping National Vote

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman was addressing the central women’s division Majlis-e-Shura session at the Al-Falah Auditorium in Moghbazar, Dhaka on Saturday

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has said that the recent victories of Islami Chhatra Shibir in the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) and Jahangirnagar University Central Students’ Union (JUCSU) elections will significantly influence the country’s upcoming national polls in 2026, Insha’Allah.

He made these remarks on Saturday while addressing the central women’s division Majlis-e-Shura session at the Al-Falah Auditorium in Moghbazar, Dhaka. The gathering was attended by party leaders, activists, and newly elected members of the Shura council.

Hope for the next general election

Expressing optimism about Jamaat’s prospects, Dr Rahman announced that the party intends to contest in all 300 constituencies in the upcoming election. He urged party supporters and well-wishers to extend financial, logistical, and moral support to ensure victory.

He also praised the sacrifices made by leaders and activists during the July–August 2024 movements, describing them as a crucial turning point in the struggle for political change. “Those who endured hardship and sacrificed during that time will, Insha’Allah, be rewarded by Allah in this world and the Hereafter,” he added.

Personal reflections and resilience

Reflecting on his own recovery from a long illness, the Jamaat chief said both health and sickness are blessings from Allah, and believers must show gratitude in every condition. He remembered those who had suffered oppression, imprisonment, and hardship during what he described as the 15.5 years of fascist rule under the previous Awami League government. He prayed for the recovery and well-being of the victims and their families.

Dr Rahman emphasised that many Jamaat leaders and activists endured jail terms, harassment, and political persecution with patience and perseverance. “The freedom to work and organise today is a direct result of those sacrifices,” he said. “Our duty is to carry out our responsibilities sincerely. The outcome belongs to Allah. We must remain humble, serve the people, and prepare ourselves for the greater struggle ahead.”

Focus on women’s role and unity

The session was chaired by Muhtaramma Nurunnisa Siddiqua, Secretary of Jamaat’s Central Women’s Division. She highlighted the importance of women’s active participation in politics and grassroots movements, calling them “an integral pillar of the party’s strength.”

During the meeting, discussions focused on the political situation in Bangladesh and the roadmap to the 2026 national election. Prof. Mia Golam Parwar, Secretary General of Jamaat and a former MP, delivered a keynote speech analysing current developments and urging members to prepare for organisational expansion.

Assistant Secretary General Maulana Abdul Halim conducted a session of Darasul Quran, stressing the need for spiritual grounding alongside political activism. Other senior leaders, including Maulana ATM Mashum, also spoke, reaffirming Jamaat’s commitment to democratic participation and peaceful struggle.

Significance of student politics

Observers note that Jamaat’s student wing, Islami Chhatra Shibir, has historically played a key role in mobilising grassroots support. Its victories in DUCSU and JUCSU are being viewed within the party as not only symbolic but also a momentum-building factor ahead of the general elections.

Party leaders believe that these wins demonstrate growing youth support and frustration with the past political order, potentially translating into electoral gains.

Looking ahead

Dr Rahman concluded his address by urging members to strengthen unity, enhance organisational activities, and remain steadfast in the face of challenges. “We must stay connected to the people, understand their struggles, and serve them with sincerity. Only then will we be able to build a prosperous and just Bangladesh,” he said.

The session ended with prayers for national peace, prosperity, and success in the upcoming political journey.