Disrespect for voting made the 1971 war inevitable: Shafiqul Rahman

Speaking at the youth marathon inauguration in Suhrawardy Udyan on Tuesday (Victory Day), he said that despite the 1969 mass movement and the 1970 general election, the Pakistani rulers did not respect the election results and deprived elected representatives of their rightful political powers. This denial of the people’s vote ultimately led to war.

He criticized post-independence governments for failing to build a just and fair state, claiming the state was controlled by a single family or group. He accused the Awami League of creating fear and misgovernance while promising a prosperous Bangladesh, which led to strong public reaction.

Referring to 15 August incidents, he said repeating past mistakes led to recurring political violence, killings, and oppression, which were eventually rejected by the public. He stressed the need to abandon old, failed politics and establish a new political trend in the country.

Regarding the 12 February national elections, he said this will mark a new chapter in Bangladesh’s politics and urged the Election Commission and administration to act impartially. He warned that any partiality towards a political party will not be accepted.

The marathon started from Suhrawardy Udyan, passing Shahbagh and Science Lab, and concluded at Manik Mia Avenue. Leaders from Jamaat’s central and metropolitan levels attended.