They wanted to use us, we walked away for the welfare of Islam: Charmonai Pir

Islami Andolan Bangladesh Amir and Charmonai Pir Mufti Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim on Tuesday said his party had parted ways with the Jamaat-e-Islami-led block who sought to “use” it in the name of Islam, stressing that the decision was taken in the greater interest of Islamic welfare and principled politics.

“They wanted to use us in the name of Islam. We chose to come out collectively for the welfare of Islam. Now people are aware, and they will stand by the politics of truth and principles,” he said.

He was speaking at an election meeting organised by Islami Andolan Bangladesh at the central Shaheed Minar in Tangail on Tuesday afternoon.

Rezaul Karim said Islami Andolan Bangladesh does not engage in power-centric politics, but instead works to build a society based on ideals, justice and moral values. “Our decision has been welcomed by people from all walks of life,” he claimed.

He added that the party is working uncompromisingly to protect the rights of the people and uphold Islamic values. Speakers at the rally demanded a free, fair and impartial election and sought voters’ support by highlighting the party’s principles and ideology.

Criticising governance failures, the Charmonai Pir said Bangladesh has lagged behind many countries since its independence. “Many nations have progressed in different sectors, but unfortunately, our country has topped the list in theft and corruption,” he said.

He urged voters to support Islami Andolan Bangladesh, saying, “If the country is to prosper, if Islamic values are to rise and if human welfare is to be ensured, there is no alternative to the hand fan symbol.” He added that young voters were increasingly expressing support for the party.

“There is only one box of Islam in Bangladesh, and that is the hand fan box,” he said.

Tangail-5 (Sadar) constituency organisational MP Khandaker Zakir Hossain Sabuj presided over the programme. Other leaders and activists of Islami Andolan Bangladesh were also present.