Opposition leader and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has claimed that a “renewed journey of fascism” began in the country when the people’s verdict in the referendum was denied.

Speaking as the chief guest at the Jatiya Ganotantrik Party's (JAGPA) founding anniversary at the Jatiya Press Club today, he warned, “We will stop this course and not allow it to proceed.”

Praying for Bangladesh to be freed from “neo-fascism,” Shafiqur Rahman called on all citizens to join the movement, stressing that it is “not for any party or group -- it is for the people. In this fight for justice and truth, victory will belong to the people.”

Criticising parliament, he said it has failed to understand and respect the aspirations of the people. “We are therefore returning to the people from parliament to implement the referendum verdict,” he added.

“This is just the beginning. This movement is for 180 million people,” he said.

Hinting at the BNP, which formed the government with a two-thirds majority, Shafiqur Rahman said, “Those who cannot practise democracy within their own party cannot ensure democracy or security for the people of the country.”

He claimed the people’s mandate in the election was “hijacked,” adding, “The people gave their verdict, but it was snatched away. Seventy percent of people voted in favour of ‘Yes’ -- that is the proof.”

Shafiqur Rahman concluded by reaffirming his party’s commitment to the referendum outcome: “We were, are, and will remain in favour of ‘Yes’. Whether parliament accepts it or not, we will implement the referendum verdict -- we will realise it, In Sha Allah.”