Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has strongly criticised the government’s energy policy and the current political situation, saying that listening to ministers and MPs gives the impression that “the country is floating on oil.”
He made the remarks as the chief guest at a discussion marking the 46th founding anniversary of the Jatiya Ganatantrik Party (JAGPA) at the Kazi Nazrul Islam Auditorium of the National Press Club on Monday.
Alleging a gap between government claims and reality, he said there are long queues of vehicles and motorcycles at fuel stations, while the government continues to claim ample reserves.
He also claimed that attempts to raise the energy crisis in parliament are not allowed for discussion.
Commenting on the composition of the current parliament, Dr Shafiqur said many lawmakers have faced various forms of repression, including imprisonment and exile.
He questioned whether such a parliament should not better understand public suffering.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman warned against what he described as a return of “fascism,” claiming that it had been rejected by the people in 2024 and that efforts to revive it would be resisted.
Referring to the recent political movement, he said the younger generation had fought not just for change in leadership but for systemic transformation.
He also alleged irregularities in the last election, claiming that public support for his party had been undermined.
Stressing the importance of internal democracy, Rahman said political parties must practise democratic values within their own structures to ensure good governance at the national level.
He added that Jamaat-e-Islami lawmakers would work to safeguard public interests and prevent any attempt to undermine the country’s future.
JAGPA spokesperson Rashed Pradhan and other leaders were also present at the event.
Concluding his speech, Dr Shafiqur Rahman expressed confidence that any attempt to reintroduce authoritarian rule would be resisted.
