Cox's Bazar, Feb 02 (V7N) — Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said on Monday that the country will move forward only if leadership free from corruption and extortion is established. He made the remarks at an election rally at Maheshkhali Boro Bazar Primary School ground as part of the ongoing election campaign.

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman claimed that those who previously opposed a “Yes” vote in the upcoming referendum have now been forced to support it. He alleged that previous governments failed to advance the country and ensure security and respect for women. He pledged that if the 11-party alliance is elected, a safe and dignified working environment for women will be ensured.

“The Bangladesh of the future will not be built by corrupt leaders, extortionists, loan defaulters, or bank robbers. It will be built by those with character, honesty, patriotism, and commitment to the people,” he said. “We do not want Bangladesh to crawl or dig its way forward.”

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman cited Bangladesh Bank data, claiming that 28 lakh crore taka—four times the annual national budget—has been looted from the country and sent abroad. “We promise to recover this money and deposit it into the state treasury so that development is based on justice,” he added.

The Jamaat Ameer also highlighted plans to develop deprived and backward regions, including Maheshkhali, which he said will be transformed into a smart economic zone. He assured employment opportunities for the youth, stating that Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians will be given work based on their qualifications and patriotism. “There will be no need to worry about unemployment allowance,” he said.

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman concluded that justice, development, and fair opportunities will be the foundation of the new Bangladesh envisioned by the 11-party alliance.

END/SMA/AJ