The Islami Andolan Bangladesh on Wednesday expressed growing doubts over the feasibility of moving forward with allies in the upcoming election, citing contradictions and unilateral actions by 'a certain political party' that is allegedly campaigning in all 300 parliamentary constituencies.
Gazi Ataur Rahman, Senior Joint Secretary General and Spokesperson of the Islami Andolan Bangladesh, said the party had hoped that outstanding issues would be resolved before the withdrawal of nomination papers, but that did not happen. “Still, anything can happen until February 12,” he said, referring to election day.
However, he raised concerns over the conduct of one party within the broader opposition understanding. “One party is campaigning in all 300 seats, and their candidates have already been finalised on behalf of the alliance. If such misleading claims continue, it will be difficult to move forward together,” he told journalists at the party’s central office in Purana Paltan on Wednesday afternoon.
Internal consultations underway
Gazi Ataur Rahman said the Islamic Andolan Bangladesh held extensive internal discussions in light of the evolving political situation. “Yesterday we held a meeting where opinions from leaders at all levels were taken. We gathered field-level information and listened to the candidates. Today, the Majlis-e-Amela met to discuss these issues,” he said.
He added that the party remains in contact with political forces it has been working with from the beginning and that discussions are ongoing over the future course of action under the “One Box Policy.” A final decision, he said, would be announced within the next one or two days.
Noting that January 20 is the last date for withdrawing nomination papers, he reiterated that political equations could still change. “Politics is dynamic. Anything can happen until February 12,” he said.
Talks beyond five-party bloc
Asked whether the Islami Andolan could reach a seat-sharing arrangement with the five parties currently in talks, Gazi Ataur Rahman said discussions were not limited to them alone. “Many are in discussions with us – some within the five-party group, others outside it. We are also talking to parties in the 12-party alliance and beyond,” he said.
On whether the party might take an independent electoral decision, the spokesperson said no final call had been made yet. “We are analysing the overall situation of the country and discussing with various stakeholders. The Islami Andolan will move forward with those who show respect for us,” he said.
Doubts over Jamaat’s role
Gazi Ataur Rahman also referred to recent political developments involving Jamaat-e-Islami and the BNP. He mentioned Jamaat Ameer’s meeting with BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, after which Jamaat spoke of discussions on forming a future government and even a national government after the election.
“The Jamaat Amir said the state would be run on the basis of the unity once created by Khaleda Zia. But that unity broke during her lifetime,” he said, adding that such statements have created doubts within the Islami Andolan about whether Jamaat might play a role similar to that of the Jatiya Party in the future.
BNP gains from divisions?
When asked whether divisions over seat-sharing were benefiting the BNP, Gazi Ataur Rahman said political gains and losses were part of the process. “Politics does not always move in one direction. There are ups and downs. Someone may gain advantage at one point and lose it at another,” he said.
He stressed that the Islami Andolan would try to protect the foundation of unity it has helped build, despite challenges.
In response to a question on fresh talks with BNP, he said, “BNP has already finalised its alliance and overall strategy.”
Crisis acknowledged, but unity prioritised
The Islami Andolan spokesperson said the situation had not yet reached a point where the party would walk away from seat-sharing talks or exclude anyone. “We are trying to maintain national unity. Despite adversities, we will try to ensure minimum compromise,” he said.
However, he acknowledged that there is a clear crisis over seat allocation. “The Islami Andolan has never practiced politics by accepting decisions imposed by others. If our party is ignored, it cannot be treated as normal,” he warned.
Criticism of ‘fake surveys’
Gazi Ataur Rahman also criticised what he described as misleading public opinion polls. “Many people are using surveys as a benchmark. People know who is conducting these surveys. If fake surveys are used to determine the election’s direction, it will lead to disaster,” he said.
He reiterated that the Islami Andolan wants to maintain respectful and dignified relations with all political forces. “Compromise does not mean putting pressure on anyone. If mutual respect exists, the number of seats would not be an issue,” he said.
Restating his concern, he concluded, “If a party continues campaigning in all 300 seats and claims alliance approval for its candidates, it will be very difficult to move forward together.”