Physicians ask Jamaat chief to undergo bypass surgery

Jamaat-e-Islami amir Dr Shafiqur Rahman faces a critical health challenge after an angiogram revealed blockages in three major heart vessels, prompting doctors to recommend bypass surgery. 

On July 19, Shafiqur collapsed twice during the party’s national rally at Suhrawardy Udyan, leading to his immediate admission to a private hospital in Dhaka.

After initial treatment and discharge, follow-up tests, including an angiogram conducted on July 29, uncovered a serious condition: significant blockages in three coronary arteries. 

Medical experts have advised that bypass surgery may be the most effective course of action, though stenting remains a potential alternative.

No final decision has been made on the treatment plan, including whether Shafiqur will undergo surgery in Bangladesh or seek care abroad. Despite his condition, the Jamaat amir has expressed a strong preference for receiving treatment within the country, reflecting his commitment to national resilience.

Shafiqur continued to participate in key engagements. On July 28, he attended a meeting with the United Nations Fact-Finding Committee alongside the chief adviser, delivering a speech that underscored his dedication to his leadership role. His ability to remain active has bolstered morale among party members, even as concerns about his health deepen.

Deputy General Manager of Ibn Sina Trust Zahidur Rahman, speaking to Jago News, clarified that while bypass surgery has been suggested, no definitive treatment plan has been confirmed. 

“He attended a meeting yesterday and gave a speech,” Zahidur noted, highlighting Shafiqur’s stable condition under medical observation.

The news of Shafiqur’s health has sent ripples of concern through Jamaat-e-Islami’s ranks. Prayer sessions have been organised across various levels of the party, with leaders and activists uniting to pray for their amir’s swift recovery.