Mirza Abbas Says Jamaat’s ‘Only Cure Is the Awami League’ as He Accuses the Party of Distorting Religion

Senior BNP leader and Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas has launched a strongly worded attack on Jamaat-e-Islami, comparing the party to the ruling Awami League and accusing both of lacking political civility. He made the remarks on Wednesday (3 December) while inaugurating a medical camp in Siddheshwari, Dhaka.

Addressing Jamaat-e-Islami directly, Abbas said, “I must say something unpleasant: your only medicine is the Awami League. You cannot work with any decent or respectable group. The Awami League is an uncouth party, and you are no different.” His comments appeared to draw parallels between the two political organisations, implying that both operate in ways he considers disruptive and socially harmful.

Accusing Jamaat of misrepresenting religious principles for political purposes, Abbas went on to say, “They are a group that distorts religion. They believe in the ideology of Maududi, not in the true principles of Islam. Please stay away from such people for your own good.” His statement underscores the BNP’s long-standing criticism of Jamaat’s ideological foundations, which have historically been a point of contention in Bangladeshi politics.

Reflecting on the events of the 1971 Liberation War, Abbas reminded the audience of the role played by certain groups now aligned with Jamaat. He said, “During the great Liberation War of 1971, those who were known as Razakars and Al-Badr collaborators handed over the people of Bangladesh—its men and women—to the Pakistani army. Today, the very same people seek votes and make loud proclamations. Is this the Bangladesh they wanted?” His remarks sought to highlight what he described as the moral inconsistency of groups that once opposed Bangladesh’s independence but now seek political legitimacy in the democratic process.

Abbas further added that those who had opposed the creation of Bangladesh now audaciously ask its citizens for votes. “Those who never wanted this country to exist are now asking for ballots from the people. This is the irony we are living with.”

Throughout his speech, he did not confine his criticism solely to Jamaat-e-Islami. By juxtaposing Jamaat with the Awami League, Abbas aimed to portray both as equally detrimental to Bangladesh’s political culture, arguing that neither upholds the values of civility, democracy, or genuine patriotism.

In the final portion of his speech, Mirza Abbas turned to matters within his own party. He requested prayers for BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who has long been suffering from critical health issues. “Please pray for our leader Begum Khaleda Zia’s recovery,” he said, urging party workers and supporters to remain united during this period of political uncertainty.

Abbas’s speech, laden with historical references, ideological accusations, and moral appeals, signals a continuation of confrontational political rhetoric as Bangladesh moves closer to future elections. His comments reflect both an attempt to rally the BNP’s base and a broader criticism of the political formations he views as harmful to the country’s democratic aspirations.