Bangladesh Jamaat‑e‑Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman today vowed to break the cycle of dynastic politics, and ensure a country that champions merit.

“We want to end the culture where a king’s son becomes king and a minister’s son becomes minister. Only merit should matter. We dream of a Bangladesh where the son of a rickshaw‑puller can one day become prime minister,” said Shafiqur, while addressing a public rally in Feni.

Referring to political violence, he said, “All we are seeing in different places is heated behaviour. If you lose your cool in winter, what will you do in the scorching heat of Chaitra? Show some respect to the July fighters. Pay tribute to the many martyrs. People from all walks of life risked their lives and stood before bullets.”

He also condemned incidents of harassment of women, saying, “Respect your own mothers and sisters, and you will be able to respect all mothers and sisters of Bengal. Do not dare to disrespect mothers. Allah’s throne will shake, and a mother’s sigh will reduce you to ashes.”

Recalling the August 2024 flood in Feni and the death of Buet student Abrar Fahad, Shafiqur said Abrar was killed for speaking up about the Feni river.

“As long as Feni exists, I request you to keep Abrar Fahad alive in your hearts,” he added.

Shafiqur stressed the need for peaceful dialogue with the neighbouring country. "We respect them and hope they will respect us as well. Through fruitful dialogue, we will find a peaceful solution, In sha Allah. Defending my country is my right and responsibility, and we cannot ignore that.”

Highlighting Feni’s contribution to the national economy, Jamaat chief pledged that no district among the country’s 64 would be deprived of a government medical college, noting that 31 districts still lack medical colleges. He also promised specialised hospitals at every district headquarters.

Seeking votes for Jamaat‑nominated candidates, Shafiqur said they represent the 11‑party alliance, not just one party. “Any grievances or differences among activists must end today. We must fight unitedly against hegemony, corruption, extortion, business over cases, and violence against women, and vote in favour of a new Bangladesh,” he said.