Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami on Wednesday formally unveiled its election manifesto for the 13th national parliamentary election, presenting a comprehensive policy roadmap focused on governance reform, economic self-reliance, youth empowerment, and social justice.
Titled “People’s Manifesto” and announced under the slogan “A Safe and Humane Bangladesh,” the document outlines 26 priority areas that the party says will guide state governance over the next five years if it comes to power.
The manifesto was unveiled at a ceremony at a five-star hotel in Dhaka by Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman, in the presence of diplomats, political leaders, journalists, business representatives, and civil society members.
Manifesto rooted in July movement ideals
Jamaat leaders said the manifesto is inspired by the ideals of the July movement and aims to build a discrimination-free, just, and humane Bangladesh. The document is divided into eight sections, with the first titled “A Discrimination-Free, Strong and Humane Bangladesh in the Spirit of the July Movement.” Its opening page features photographs of July movement martyrs Abu Sayeed, Sharif Osman bin Hadi, and BUET student Abrar Fahad, symbolizing resistance against injustice and authoritarianism.
26 priority areas for governance
The manifesto begins with a pledge to establish a Bangladesh uncompromising on national interest, governed on the principles of justice (insaf) and human dignity. Key governance commitments include:
- Fundamental reforms to the state structure and a complete overhaul of the political system
- Empowering a national parliament and reforming the electoral system
- Establishing accountable, citizen-centric public administration
- Improving law and order, eradicating corruption, and reforming the justice system
- Ensuring freedom of information and media accountability
The party also promised a cohesive democratic system, accountability for extrajudicial killings, and protection of fundamental human rights. It vowed to prevent the return of what it termed “fascist governance” and promote service-oriented politics rather than confrontation. Equal citizenship rights for all, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or social status, were emphasized.
Economy, investment, and employment
The manifesto outlines plans for a sustainable, transparent, and business-friendly economy. Jamaat-e-Islami pledged to stabilize commodity prices, create an investor-friendly environment, and generate large-scale employment through merit-based recruitment. Industrial expansion through SMEs, improving workers’ wages, safeguarding labor rights, and supporting expatriates’ welfare were also highlighted.
Agriculture, food security, and environment
Agricultural reform is a cornerstone, with plans for an “agricultural revolution” to increase productivity, ensure fair prices for farmers, and guarantee adulteration-free food. The party also committed to the “Three-Zero Vision”—zero environmental degradation, zero waste, and zero flood risk—alongside sustainable water management and climate resilience measures.
Youth empowerment and entrepreneurship
Youth empowerment is one of the most detailed policy areas. Jamaat-e-Islami aims to create 1.5 million freelancers and 500,000 new entrepreneurs within five years through e-work hubs and youth tech labs in every upazila, offering international-standard training and access to global freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr.
The manifesto proposes training 10 million youths in AI, IoT, cloud computing, cybersecurity, green technology, and entrepreneurship. Under the slogan “Entrepreneur first, not job first,” the party plans incubation centers in divisional cities and district-based youth job banks.
Employment support and financial assistance
The manifesto promises employment for 5 million youths within five years. Educated unemployed individuals would receive Tk10,000 per month for up to two years as an interest-free loan under a “skills diversification allowance.” Merit-based recruitment will be ensured in government jobs, with no age barriers for qualified candidates. Special funds will support women, marginalized communities, and ethnic minority entrepreneurs, while rural youth will be connected to global markets via high-speed internet and co-working spaces.
Education, healthcare, and social security
Jamaat-e-Islami pledged reforms in education, gradually introducing free education aligned with global standards. The manifesto promises modern, universal healthcare and a universal social security system. Affordable housing for low- and middle-income families and expanded social welfare programs were also highlighted.
Transport, infrastructure, and urban development
The party plans to overhaul the national transport system, reduce travel time between Dhaka and divisional cities to two-three hours, improve urban planning, and enhance public transport safety and efficiency.
Sports and physical development
The manifesto aims to turn sports into a nationwide social movement. Targets include producing 500 international-standard athletes within five years through merit-based selection, stipends, science-based training, international exposure, and a Sports Science Institute. Traditional sports such as kabaddi, wrestling, and boat racing will be preserved and promoted.
Public participation in manifesto
Jamaat-e-Islami said the manifesto reflects over 3.7 million public opinions collected through app-based outreach, ensuring the document addresses citizens’ expectations and the country’s future needs.
With the national election approaching, the People’s Manifesto presents a detailed policy roadmap emphasizing governance reform, economic self-reliance, youth empowerment, social justice, accountability, inclusivity, and welfare-state principles.
