Shafiqur Rahman: Jamaat will accept poll results, serve as ‘principled’ opposition

The Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, announced that the party fully accepts the outcome of the 13th Parliamentary Election and is prepared to serve as a “principled” opposition in the upcoming session of parliament. The statement, released following the confirmation of election results, emphasizes the party’s renewed commitment to democratic processes.

The announcement follows a significant electoral performance by Jamaat-e-Islami, which secured 77 seats across the country, positioning the party as a major political force in the new parliament. This victory grants the party substantial leverage in the opposition benches and marks a significant return to mainstream electoral politics.

Addressing the press, Dr. Rahman cited the need for adherence to democratic norms, stating that the people’s verdict, delivered through the ballot box, must be respected by all participating political entities. He confirmed that Jamaat’s representatives would take their seats and focus on ensuring governmental accountability.

“We have participated in this election to strengthen the democratic system of the country,” Dr. Rahman stated. “And a strong, ethical opposition is absolutely vital for the functioning of any healthy democracy. We will fulfill that mandate responsibly, holding the ruling party accountable while focusing on national prosperity.”

Rahman stressed that their role as opposition would be constructive rather than purely adversarial. He committed the party to raising essential public issues, monitoring policy decisions, and defending democratic institutions from the parliament floor.

With 77 seats, Jamaat-e-Islami is now set to play a pivotal role in shaping the political discourse of the 13th Parliament, navigating a path forward that integrates their political objectives with their newly acquired democratic mandate.