News Desk

In a significant diplomatic interaction, Jamaat Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman met with the Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Mr. Saida Shinichi, at the central office of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami in Dhaka on June 22. The meeting, which began at 10 am, was marked by sincerity and mutual respect, focusing on a wide range of issues of national and bilateral interest.

According to sources present at the meeting, discussions covered the current political situation in Bangladesh, the state of democratic institutions, religious and civil rights, and the potential for deeper cooperation between Japan and Bangladesh. The Jamaat Ameer offered a brief overview of his party’s ideology and objectives, particularly emphasizing its stance on freedom of speech, democratic integrity, and the protection of religious rights.

During the meeting, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman voiced serious concerns regarding what he described as “ongoing political oppression and authoritarian practices” in Bangladesh. He condemned the repeated electoral malpractices that have marred recent national elections, including those held in 2014, 2018, and 2024. Notably, he reminded the Japanese delegation of the previous Japanese Ambassador’s 2018 remark, referring to that year’s election as a “midnight election”-a phrase that gained symbolic resonance among the opposition.

Highlighting the human rights challenges faced by his party, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman condemned the execution of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami leaders in what he claimed were “fabricated and politically motivated cases.” He also detailed ongoing issues of incarceration, torture, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings, asserting that Jamaat has been disproportionately targeted during Bangladesh’s current and past periods of autocratic governance.

In response, Ambassador Saida Shinichi expressed appreciation for the candid exchange and reiterated Japan’s long-standing commitment to democratic values, peace, and development. He underscored Japan’s support for free, fair, and peaceful elections in Bangladesh, emphasizing that political pluralism and inclusive dialogue are essential for long-term stability.

Ambassador Shinichi also acknowledged the historic relationship between Bangladesh and Japan, expressing hope that bilateral cooperation in infrastructure, trade, and development would continue to deepen.

The meeting was attended by several high-profile Jamaat-e-Islami leaders, including newly released senior leader ATM Azharul Islam, Nayebe Ameer and former MP Dr. Syed Abdullah Md. Taher, and former MP Maulana Anam Shamsul Islam. Also present were Secretary General and former MP Professor Mia Golam Parwar, Central Executive Council members Ed. Matiur Rahman Akand and Mr. Mubarak Hossain, and Jamaat Ameer’s Foreign Affairs Advisor Professor Dr. Mahmudul Hasan.

Observers note that the meeting reflects a strategic attempt by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami to engage the international community amid a tightening political environment and growing concerns over Bangladesh’s democratic backsliding.