AL orchestrated 'cold-blooded' murders of Jammat leaders: Shafiqur Rahman

Protesting the execution of top leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami for crimes against humanity during the rule of the Awami League that took place in 1971, the party’s Ameer, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, stated, "You are the ones who have committed cold-blooded murders of the best sons of this country, who were patriotic and faithful, under the pretext of justice. Not a single one of our beloved leaders attempted to flee the country out of fear of punishment. They knew the charges against them were completely false. They were confident that they could stand in the courtroom and declare, 'I am innocent.'"

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman made these remarks as the chief guest at a meeting held at the Altafuunnessa playground in Bogura city on Saturday (October 26). This event was organized jointly by the Bogura district and city branches of Jamaat-e-Islami and was presided over by the city branch's Amir, Professor Abidur Rahman Sohel.

In his speech, the Ameer further stated that Mir Qasem was in America at that time. He was advised against returning to the country, but Mir Qasem said that remaining in hiding would prove his guilt. That is why he returned to face trial. However, the judges of that time acted as political thugs.

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman stated that the then government has made some people disappear, killed others, and crippled many. Whenever the people have attempted to stand up for their rightful demands, they have suppressed those movements with force. Those who spoke frequently of the liberation war and embraced its spirit were the same ones who turned hundreds of people into martyrs.

He further stated, "It is just revenge upon revenge. How will this nation survive? There needs to be an end to this cycle. That is why we have said that we will not seek revenge against the fascist government for the major crimes it has committed against our party. However, there will be justice for those who have been made victims of abduction, murder, and disability, and for those whose money has been stolen and taken abroad."

The meeting was also addressed by Jamaat-e-Islami’s Secretary General Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan, former Ameer of the Bogura district branch Professor Shahabuddin, current Ameer Maulana Abdul Haque, among others.