Jamaat demands neutral elections, Golam Parwar says reforms are essential to prevent new fascism

Dhaka: To ensure the sustainable development of democracy in Bangladesh and to prevent the rise of a new form of fascist rule, neutral elections and political reforms are necessary, said Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar at a seminar held at the National Press Club.

The national seminar titled “The Mass Uprising of July 24: Expectations, Achievements, and Necessary Actions” was held on Friday (August 1) morning at the third floor of the National Press Club. During the event, the English and Arabic versions of the book “The Martyrs and Injured of the Second Liberation War” were also unveiled.

At the seminar, Golam Parwar stated, “The people of Bangladesh are now much more aware and vigilant. The long movement against dictatorship is proof of this.” He added, “To prevent a new fascist system from emerging in the country, we need a credible and neutral election system.”

Golam Parwar said that since January 2024, the general public began raising their voices against the Awami League government. This movement intensified into street protests from June and escalated further into a mass uprising in July. “This movement is not just a demand for a change of power; it is a demand for structural state reform,” he said.

The Jamaat leader also said, “Democracy cannot be established in the long term solely through movements or elections. It is crucial to build a culture of internal democracy, accountability, and ethical leadership within political parties.” He emphasized, “To sustain the achievements of July, fundamental state reforms, the independence of the judiciary, and political unity are indispensable.”

The seminar discussed the background and outcomes of the July 2024 movement, known as the “Second Liberation War.” Jamaat representatives claimed that many people were martyred and injured in that movement. The book was published to honor their memory, and its English and Arabic editions were unveiled at the event.