A Jamaat leader has announced he will take up a position in the Awami League

Latifur Rahman, a senior figure in Jamaat-e-Islami—serving as a central committee member, zonal assistant, former Member of Parliament, and one of the top leaders in Chapainawabganj district—has publicly invited members of the Awami League to join Jamaat. Addressing a gathering, he assured prospective members that the party would assume responsibility for their roles and duties, including legal matters and administrative responsibilities in the district.

Speaking at a courtyard meeting on Tuesday afternoon (30 December) in Fatapara, Madanmor area, Charbagdanga Union, Chapainawabganj Sadar Upazila, Rahman emphasised that Jamaat has evolved into a strong and organised party, distancing itself from the image of the “old Jamaat.” His speech, recorded on video, quickly circulated on social media.

He stated, “Those of you coming from the Awami League or BNP should not see Jamaat-e-Islami as the old Jamaat. This is a stronger, reformed Jamaat. We will assume responsibility for your roles in the jail, the local police station, and administrative offices.”

Rahman extended invitations to members of the BNP and the Hindu community, asserting that the party would protect them and ensure their participation without fear. He cited an example of an individual who transitioned from the Awami League to Jamaat, claiming the move had saved him from harm rather than exposing him to any wrongdoing. Rahman added, “I myself come from an Awami League family, a son of a 1971 liberation war martyr. I have been engaged in the country’s independence movement from 1969 to 1975 and embraced Islam in 1976.”

He also addressed the police, warning them against harassing those joining Jamaat, saying, “I have informed the DB police not to disturb these people.”

Rejecting labels such as “rogue” or “Rajakar,” Rahman urged supporters to focus on constructive ideas for the future rather than engage in baseless rhetoric. He highlighted the party’s recent unity efforts among Islamic scholars and groups, noting that two BNP ministers had recently joined Jamaat.

Rahman concluded by reflecting on the persecution faced by party members, including executions, enforced disappearances, and other human rights violations, stressing the need for greater understanding of Islamic principles among supporters.

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