Photo: Taken from video

SANGSAD BHABAN, Mar 12, 2026 (BSS) - Opposition leader and Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Dr Shafiqur Rahman today expressed the hope that the newly formed parliament will emerge as a dynamic, vibrant and effective institution that ensures justice and works for the welfare of the people.

Speaking in the House congratulating the newly elected Speaker today, Shafiqur Rahman expressed gratitude to the people of his constituency and the citizens across the country for electing their representatives through their valuable votes.

At the outset, he thanked Almighty Allah and paid deep tribute to the martyrs of different democratic and political struggles in the country, including the movements of 1947, 1952 and 1971. 

He also remembered with respect those who were martyred at Shapla Chattar and those who suffered persecution during what he termed the “fascist period.”

The Jamaat Ameer also paid homage to those who fought and sacrificed during the July, 24 movement, saying their struggle made it possible to establish the present parliament. He prayed for the departed souls and sought recovery for those who were injured or persecuted.

Dr Shafiqur Rahman said the current parliament is not a routine one, rather it stands on the sacrifices and blood of people. He congratulated the newly elected Speaker and Deputy Speaker, expressing the hope that they would perform their responsibilities with fairness and impartiality.

He noted that more than five decades have passed since the country’s independence, but the parliament and parliamentary politics had remained truly effective only for a limited time. According to him, people benefited whenever the parliament functioned properly, but in many periods it fell under authoritarian tendencies and became largely ineffective.

Referring to the Speaker’s announcement of resigning from his party post to maintain neutrality, he said this step has created confidence among members that both treasury and opposition benches would receive equal treatment.

Shafiqur Rahman expressed optimism that under the Speaker’s leadership, the parliament would become dynamic and constructive. He also pointed out that many young members have been elected to the House this time and said they would learn from the experienced lawmakers who served in the past.

He urged that parliamentary discussions should focus on the welfare of the people instead of character assassination or personal attacks, which, he said, consumed much time in previous parliaments. The House, he added, should never turn into a place for defaming individuals.

The Jamaat leader assured the Speaker of his party’s cooperation in running the parliament smoothly and effectively.

He stressed that the parliament is one of the three key pillars of the state and if it functions properly, the other institutions would also work accordingly.

Recalling the expectations of the July movement, Shafiqur Rahman said people demanded justice above all. “We want justice,” he said, expressing hope that the parliament would play a central role in addressing political, economic and social injustices.

He concluded by wishing the Speaker good health and success in leading the House effectively.