Referendum with Polls Could Spark Chaos, Warns Jamaat Chief

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has warned that holding a national referendum on the same day as the next general election could trigger severe turmoil, including what he described as a “risk of genocide.”

Speaking to journalists at Chawkbazar Parade Ground in Chattogram on Saturday afternoon, he said such a move could dangerously heighten political tensions at a time when the nation is already experiencing deep division.

“I do not want a referendum on election day. If such a vote is held alongside the general election, there is a risk of genocide,” he cautioned, though he did not clarify who might be in danger or how such violence might unfold. He framed his warning as an appeal to avoid actions that could fuel unrest or destabilise the country.

Dr. Shafiqur stressed that the upcoming general election, expected in early 2026, must be held in an environment that ensures fairness and participation for all political actors. “This election has to take place. If it doesn’t, the country will face a crisis. We will not allow any crisis to develop,” he said, after arriving in Chattogram by helicopter to attend a series of party programmes.

Arguing that a level playing field does not currently exist, he called for immediate steps to ensure equal opportunities for all parties. “The people deserve a fair, free and inclusive election where every voice is heard,” he said.

Reaffirming Jamaat’s longstanding position, he repeated his demand for a proportional representation (PR) electoral system, saying it would reflect the true will of the people. “The PR system will serve the people, not just one party. Even if we come to power, InshaAllah, we will implement it,” he pledged.

Dr. Shafiqur said his stance was not driven by the interests of his own party but by national interest. “I am not speaking for Jamaat’s victory. I am speaking for the people’s victory.”

Reflecting on 54 years of independence, he lamented that Bangladesh’s abundant natural and human resources had not translated into broad-based development. “Chattogram and Bangladesh as a whole are lands of wealth. But who has benefited? A few have looted the nation’s riches. The common people remain deprived.”

He pointed to the deterioration of the education system, stagnation in industrial growth, and underperformance in fisheries and livestock sectors as evidence of failed leadership. “We lack prudent, sincere, patriotic and honest leaders. Without them, every opportunity is lost.”

Calling for unity, he said, “This moment belongs to the entire nation — Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, all citizens equally. We must not allow another chance to slip away.”

He reiterated that Jamaat’s central struggle is against corruption. “Our war is against corruption. We will not bow to anyone. We will not hand over the politics of this country to any family or party. The real owners are the people, and we want to restore their rights.”

He added that eliminating corruption would pave the way for national progress, with education reform as a foundational priority. “We must rebuild our broken education system — modern, moral and humane. Our goal is not to create anti-social elites but responsible, compassionate citizens.”

Responding to questions about political rivalries, he said, “We have too many positive agendas to focus on. We don’t have time to provoke anyone or respond to provocations.”