'Why force Awami League to join polls?'

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman today said forcing the Awami League to take part in the upcoming national election would amount to "oppression".

He made this remark while addressing journalists at Sylhet Osmani International Airport this morning.

Dr Shafiqur said, "There is no scope for Awami League to participate in the next election. They don't even like elections. If something they dislike is imposed upon them, that would be oppression. So, there is no question of involving them in the election."

The Jamaat chief added that no election could be legitimate without a referendum. "We demand a referendum first so that the people can give their opinion."

"We are not forming any alliance but joining the electoral field with the people. Alongside Islamic parties, patriotic, committed, and honest citizens are joining us. Together, we want to rebuild the nation," he said.

He said, "In the past three national elections, people could not vote. The nation wants change and good governance. Instead, misrule and corruption have taken over. People are now on the streets against this misrule. We urge the nation to say no to corruption. Don't commit it yourself, and don't let others commit it. Only then can we build a better Bangladesh."

Regarding concerns over administrative neutrality, he said, "We've already proposed to the Election Commission and the government to remove officials who showed bias in previous elections."

"Our voters are like tigers starved for 15 years -- they are determined to reclaim their right to vote. No force will be able to withstand the people's wave this time, In sha Allah," he said.

Shafiqur said, "We will ensure the election is held in February. Delaying it further could lead to unrest and instability. Holding the polls on time is the best option."

He added that Jamaat had already announced the names of several candidates but hinted that changes could be made.