Md. Saiful Islam, Barishal

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, MP, has issued a stern warning to the government, stating that they must fulfill the mandate of the national referendum.

Speaking as the chief guest at a divisional rally organized by the 11-party alliance at the Hemayet Uddin Eidgah ground in Barishal on Saturday afternoon, he asserted that the current administration must not betray the public's trust.

"We want a new system of governance and the implementation of the referendum results," Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said. "You gained power through a mechanism and have now forgotten the people's mandate. Be prepared for dire consequences if you engage in deception. You are walking the path of fascism, which is a betrayal of the nation."

The Jamaat Ameer criticized the lack of regional development, demanding the construction of a bridge between Bhola and Barishal and the extension of railway lines to the southern region. "There will be no balanced national development while keeping Barishal deprived. We will raise our voices wherever there is discrimination," he added. He further urged the government to accept the referendum results before the next rally in Sylhet on July 25, or be prepared for a massive rally in Dhaka.

"How much more will you deceive the people?" he questioned, emphasizing that the sacrifices made during the July movement would not be in vain. "We do not want to remain on the streets; we want to work together. Do not test our patience any further."

The rally was presided over by Advocate Muazzam Hossain Helal, Assistant Secretary General of Jamaat-e-Islami and Director of the Barishal region. He expressed gratitude to Dr. Shafiqur Rahman for raising local issues in the National Parliament and echoed the demand for the Bhola-Barishal bridge, a six-lane highway, and gas supply.

NCP Convener and Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam, appearing as a special guest, criticized the Prime Minister, alleging that the government has turned against democracy since August 5. He accused the administration of abandoning reform efforts and failing to provide employment, while instead facilitating extortion by party activists. "We will ensure justice, including the trial of Sheikh Hasina, by implementing the July Charter," he said.

LDP President Colonel (Retd) Dr. Oli Ahmed, Bir Bikram, stated that there is no opportunity for the Awami League to return. He expressed disappointment that the current government has failed to learn from the fall of the previous regime, particularly regarding corruption and extortion.

Other speakers, including AB Party General Secretary Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad, Bangladesh Labour Party President Dr. Mostafizur Rahman Iran, and Jagpa Vice-President Engineer Rashed Pradhan, also criticized the government's policies, accusing them of maintaining ties with the previous regime and failing to address systemic corruption.

The event, which was attended by leaders and activists from across the Barishal division, saw massive crowds filling the grounds and surrounding streets.