Mojibur Rahman Monju serves as the member secretary of the Amar Bangladesh (AB) Party and is a former president of the Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir—the student wing of Jamaat. He discusses the party’s thoughts on upcoming election preparations, its organizational plan, reform agenda, and his views on the position of Islamic parties in this period, in an exclusive interview with Dhaka Tribune’s Nawaz Farhin Antara.
Dhaka Tribune: What's the AB Party's reform agenda?
The AB Party's reform agenda consists of three main points: firstly, we want reforms in political party and government structures; secondly, reforms in the law and judiciary; and thirdly, reforms in public administration and policing. Since there isn't enough space to elaborate, I will briefly discuss the proposed reforms in political party and government structures. We propose that the head of the party and the head of the government cannot be the same person. Additionally, the Prime Minister, ministers, and members of parliament should not serve more than two terms, whether consecutively or with a break. Similarly, the head of the party and those in other positions of responsibility should not hold office for more than two or three terms. This will promote internal democracy within the party, foster new leadership, and enhance accountability. We believe this will prevent dynastic politics and reduce corruption.
How do you envision a future democratic Bangladesh?
A democratic Bangladesh is a long-awaited dream for us, but this dream has been shattered repeatedly. I believe this time, we must seize the opportunity. A democratic Bangladesh is only possible when political parties practice internal democracy, elections are free, fair, impartial, and inclusive, and the parliament is effective. Additionally, I believe regular student council elections based on merit and competence in educational institutions, along with an independent and responsible media, will lay a solid foundation for a democratic Bangladesh.
What's your party’s position on the duration of the interim government?
It should not take more than one and a half to two years to restore law and order in state administration, implement fundamental and essential reforms, and hold a free, fair, impartial, and participatory election. We hope that if the interim government is sincere, they will successfully complete these tasks within this timeframe.
What's the AB Party's stance on the mass cases filed against dozens of journalists?
Our position on this matter is very clear. We are against mass cases against anyone. If there is specific evidence against a journalist—such as involvement in disappearances, murder, terrorism, undermining democracy, supporting fascism, or direct participation in or incitement of genocide—then charges can be brought against them. Any case should be based on concrete information and evidence.
What is your organizational plan moving forward? And what are your thoughts on upcoming election preparations?
We are currently focused on expanding and organizing our party at the grassroots level, while also taking necessary steps to prepare for the upcoming election. The party’s election-related committee has already begun working on candidate selection for all 300 constituencies. We are also exploring the possibility of forming a strategic electoral alliance for a better outcome.
What kinds of changes and initiatives will you focus on if your party comes to power through the election?
Our party is working with a plan to come to power through democratic means within the next 12 to 15 years. Our goal is to gradually transform Bangladesh into a welfare state based on equality, human dignity, and social justice. We will prioritize implementing a job-oriented education system, reducing unemployment, and achieving economic self-sufficiency.
What is your opinion on the position of Islamic parties in this period under the interim government?
In this current period under the interim government, we see Islamic parties becoming quite active and encouraged. They appear to be trying to overcome their internal differences and form a political alliance. In the past, Islamic parties were often labeled as backward, anti-independence, communal, extremist, and proponents of negative politics. If they can adopt policies of prudence, tolerance, and rectify past mistakes while implementing necessary reforms in their politics, I believe public support for them will grow.
