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A Test for Jamaat, a Test for Democracy
Jamaat-e-Islami’s emergence as Bangladesh’s principal opposition presents an opportunity to build a more accountable parliamentary democracy. This article argues that the party must prioritise parliamentary scrutiny, establish its promised shadow cabinet and present a clear reform programme. Its credibility will depend on offering practical policy alternatives and upholding democratic principles both in opposition and in government.
The Battle for Bangladesh’s New Political Centre
Since August 2024, Bangladesh’s political landscape has been reshaped. The BNP is moving towards the centre, Jamaat has emerged as a leading force on the right, the Awami League may retain a social base, and the NCP is still defining its identity. The deeper challenge is to build a political order in which parties can compete under accountable government, independent institutions and shared constitutional rules.
Why Pakistan Broke Apart: My Reflections
Pakistan did not break apart merely because of geographical separation or cultural differences. Its collapse resulted from the concentration of power, the destruction of democracy, regional inequality, ideological inconsistency, and the failure to recognise Bengalis as equal political partners. The rejection of the 1970 electoral mandate and the military operation of 25 March transformed a political crisis into a war for independence. India and Cold War politics influenced the outcome, but Pakistan’s rulers had created the internal crisis. The central lesson of 1971 is that diversity does not destroy a state; injustice, authoritarianism, and the denial of popular consent do.
The July Charter and the unfinished question of reform in Bangladesh
After the 2024 uprising, Bangladesh seemed to stand before a rare constitutional moment: a chance not merely to change a government, but to rethink how the state itself works. Yet the fate of the July National Charter, the controversy over the 2026 referendum, the cancellation of key reform ordinances and the deep ambivalence of major political actors now raise a harder question: does Bangladesh’s political class truly want reform, or only the language of reform?
1971, Jamaat and the Question of Apology: How Many Times, and in What Language?
Jamaat-e-Islami’s support for a united Pakistan in 1971 was a political decision that must be distinguished from individual criminal responsibility and the atrocities committed by the Pakistani military. Jamaat’s leaders have expressed regret and offered apologies on several occasions, yet critics continue to question their wording and sincerity. The article argues that allegations of war crimes require credible evidence and impartial trials, not merely demands for apology. It also calls for the same historical and moral standards to be applied to all political parties. If Jamaat’s apologies remain unacceptable, its critics should clearly explain what language and acknowledgement they require.
Jamaat-e-Islami and 1971: Historical Complexity and the Question of Assessment
Jamaat-e-Islami’s position in 1971 must be understood within the wider historical, political and ideological crisis surrounding the division of Pakistan. Its support for a united Pakistan was largely rooted in the belief that Muslim political unity should be preserved and that East Pakistan’s legitimate grievances could be resolved through reform and negotiation. Ghulam Azam recognised the growing political divide and warned that the failure to reach a settlement would invite military intervention and disaster. The atrocities and immense human suffering of 1971 must be acknowledged, and those responsible for crimes should face fair and impartial justice. However, supporting a particular political arrangement should not automatically be treated as evidence of involvement in criminal acts. A mature assessment of 1971 therefore requires both accountability and a willingness to understand its complex historical realities.
Democratic Movements and Jamaat-e-Islami during the Pakistan Era: 1947–1971
Between 1947 and 1971, Jamaat-e-Islami participated in democratic movements, opposed Ayub Khan’s military rule, and supported electoral and parliamentary government. Its commitment to a united Pakistan later brought it into conflict with Bangladesh’s independence struggle. A balanced historical assessment must recognise both its democratic contributions and its responsibility for its own political choices.
Daily Naya Diganta (দৈনিক নয়া দিগন্ত)
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From Prohibition to Parliament: Why Dr. Shafiqur Rahman May Shape Bangladesh’s New Opposition Era
Bangladesh’s 2026 election marked not only the formation of a new government but also the emergence of a powerful new opposition. Under Dr. Shafiqur Rahman’s leadership, Jamaat overcame years of prohibition and political exclusion to become the country’s principal opposition force. Its strong vote share, organisational resilience, and growing support among younger and urban voters demonstrate its transformed political position. Dr. Shafiqur Rahman’s central challenge now is to turn this electoral success into responsible parliamentary leadership, effective accountability, and constructive opposition politics.
From 1971 to the Caretaker Government: The Political Legacy of Ghulam Azam
This article critically examines Professor Ghulam Azam’s political legacy—from his position in 1971 to Jamaat-e-Islami’s reorganisation, the caretaker government movement, and the party’s emergence as a significant force in Bangladesh’s electoral politics.