Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman, addressing the interim government, has said it must engage in discussions with all stakeholders, including political parties, to devise a roadmap for reforms and elections, hold an acceptable election within a reasonable timeframe, and step down with dignity.

Shafiqur voiced his demands while addressing an event organized by the Khulna metropolitan unit of Jamaat in Sonadanga, Khulna, on Friday morning. Jamaat Secretary General and former MP Mia Golam Parwar also spoke as a special guest.

Referring to the government’s education reform commission, the Jamaat chief urged that at least one scholar from the Alia and Qawmi education systems should be included in it.

He demanded justice for all killings, including the murder of 57 army officers during the 2009 BDR mutiny, and holding the masterminds accountable, warning that failure to do so might pave the way for the return of oppressors or the rise of a third force.

Shafiqur pointed to the Awami League, saying that those involved in mass killing had no right to engage in politics. Politics should reflect the aspirations of the people, not depend on external help, he added.

The Jamaat ameer said no citizen of the state had been spared from looting and oppression during the 15-year rule of the Awami League.

“The cries of thousands of people, including mothers, sisters and children, reached the throne of Allah, resulting in the July uprising led by the nation’s students and people.”