The Ameer of the Islami Andolan Bangladesh (IAB), Mufti Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim, popularly known as Charmonai Pir, had a courtesy meeting with the Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami, Dr Shafiqur Rahman, on Tuesday.
Later, he participated in a luncheon hosted by Charmonai Pir, signaling the potential for unity between the two parties.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman arrived in Barisal on Tuesday morning to attend a Jamaat worker's conference.
At around 11:30am, he met Mufti Rezaul Karim at the Charmonai Pir’s residence.
During the meeting, they discussed various political issues.
Afterward, the leaders of both parties answered questions from the press.
When asked whether there was unity among Islamic political parties, both leaders prayed for unity in front of the public.
They mentioned that Islamic parties were attempting to send a single box to the polling centers unitedly.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman said: "We primarily seek unity among Islamic parties. With our united strength, we will not allow a farcical election to take place. Therefore, the election must be held after necessary reforms at the appropriate time."
He added: "Out of 180 million people in this country, 91% identify themselves as Muslims. Among the remaining 9%, some are non-Muslim. In total, this Bangladesh is ours. Our gathering is for Allah. This unity will also exist in the political field. We have no differences among ourselves. The people's expectation is that in every election center, there should be a single box for Islamic parties."
In response to questions from the press, Mufti Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim said: "There have been efforts in the past and are still ongoing to send a box in favor of Islam at polling centers during elections. Islamic parties have been kept at a distance through various strategies for the last 53 years.
"However, the new freedom on August 5 has created a favorable environment for the Islamic side. But if we do not act in a timely manner, it could be detrimental to us," he added.
