Leader of the Opposition and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Saturday said no government can sustain itself for long by ignoring the verdict of nearly 70 percent of the people, urging the authorities to respect the outcome of the recent referendum.
Speaking as the chief guest at a divisional rally of the 11-party alliance at Chattogram’s historic Laldighi Maidan, Shafiqur said public opinion must be reflected in state decisions in keeping with democratic principles.
The rally was organised to press for implementation of the referendum verdict, restoration of law and order, control of commodity prices and relief from public suffering.
“Nearly 70 percent of the people have expressed their opinion through the referendum. Ignoring such a mandate goes against the spirit of democracy,” he said.
He stressed that citizens expect their voting rights and electoral verdicts to be respected, warning that people would react if their aspirations continued to be overlooked.
“If the government fails to fulfil the expectations of the people, the people themselves will respond,” he said.
Shafiqur alleged that competent, honest and patriotic individuals were being denied proper recognition in various sectors, while dissenting voices faced obstacles due to the politicisation of institutions.
He also criticised what he described as barriers to raising public concerns in Parliament, including issues such as rising prices of essentials, corruption, extortion and matters of national interest.
“The government must accept the referendum verdict. If it refuses to acknowledge the people's demand voluntarily, the situation may take a different turn,” he said.
Referring to the political developments of 1996, he said the then authorities had eventually been compelled to introduce the caretaker government system in response to public pressure.
“This time as well, the authorities should peacefully accept the referendum verdict rather than forcing people onto the streets,” he said, adding that there was still time to address public concerns through dialogue and democratic means.
The Jamaat chief also said Bangladesh’s independence, sovereignty and national interests would not be compromised for any individual, group or foreign power. He called on citizens to remain united in safeguarding the country’s interests.
“We are committed to establishing the rights of the people and are prepared to make every sacrifice necessary for that cause,” he said.
Shafiqur further alleged that corruption and extortion had become entrenched in society and argued that such practices could only be effectively addressed through an elected and accountable government.
He reaffirmed his party’s commitment to pursuing the causes of rule of law, public rights and a corruption-free Bangladesh both inside Parliament and through democratic political activities.
The rally was chaired by Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Chairman Col (retd.) Oli Ahmad.
