Jamaat chief announces voluntary imprisonment seeking Azhar’s release

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s Amir, Dr Shafiqur Rahman, has announced his decision to voluntarily imprison himself in protest of the prolonged detention of the party’s Assistant Secretary General, ATM Azharul Islam.  

In a Facebook post on Thursday (February 20), Dr Shafiqur expressed his frustration over the repeated delays in granting bail to Azharul Islam, who remains incarcerated despite the release of other national leaders.  

"Dear party colleagues and respected countrymen, Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah. You must have noticed that ATM Azharul Islam, a victim of brutal fascist oppression, is still in prison," Shafiqur wrote.  

He continued, "While other national leaders have been released one by one, Azharul Islam continues to suffer the heavy burden of discrimination and oppression. I cannot remain free while he is imprisoned. We have given the government enough time."  

Announcing his plan for voluntary arrest, Shafiqur said, "On February 25, I will present myself in court to be arrested in protest of this injustice and to demand Azharul Islam’s release."  

Addressing the Law and Home Affairs Ministries, he added, "Take the necessary steps to arrest me and send me to prison. I will be present at the right place and time, God willing."