Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Monday said his party intends to form a national government if it comes to power, even if it secures 200 parliamentary seats independently, aiming to safeguard national interest and ensure political stability.
He made the remarks while briefing reporters after paying a courtesy call on European Union Ambassador Michael Miller in Gulshan.
Ambassadors and diplomats at the meeting also included Swedish Ambassador Nicholas Wicks; Norwegian Ambassador Hakon Harald Gulbrandsen; German Ambassador Dr Rudiger Lotz; Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro; French Deputy Head of Mission Frederic Inza; Dutch Deputy Head of Mission Thijs Woudstra; EU Deputy Head of Mission Beba Zerina; and Sebastian Reiger-Braun, First Secretary at the EU Delegation.
During the meeting, EU representatives asked about issues including the Rohingya crisis, public security, the party's election manifesto, and its 100-day plan after assuming office.
In response, the Jamaat chief assured them that his party would work to build an 'inclusive Bangladesh', if elected.
"We will not exclude any political party. A national government is essential for the next five years to restore the economy, ensure stability, establish the rule of law, and curb corruption," he said.
He also outlined two conditions for joining the national government: no member would be allowed to engage in or tolerate corruption, and equal justice must be ensured with no political interference in the judiciary.
Speaking about holding the national election and referendum simultaneously, Shafiqur Rahman said voter awareness was still not adequate for two major ballots on the same day, warning that both processes could be hampered.
He recommended keeping them separate.
Responding to allegations of using religion in politics, he said religion is part of Jamaat's ideology, not a tool. "We do not exploit religion. Those who suddenly appear with caps and prayer beads only during elections are the ones using religion," he said.
He iterated that the upcoming parliamentary election scheduled for February must not be postponed. "We believe the election should be held on time, in February."
The Jamaat chief also reaffirmed the party's support for the proportional representation (PR) electoral system, saying it has been demanded in the interest of the people and that Jamaat would implement it, if elected.
Source: UNB