The Supreme Court of Bangladesh has lifted a five-year ban on Jamaat-e-Islami, the country’s largest Muslim political party. A countrywide student-led uprising brought about this decision. Their strategy worked, bringing down Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government in August. With the latest ruling, Jamaat-e-Islami is now cleared to become a participant in these upcoming general elections. These primaries and special elections would happen by mid next year.
Jamaat-e-Islami has faced major challenges over the years. This owed largely to its traditional role as Pakistan’s ally during the Bangladesh Liberation War. In 2013, this time the party took to the High Court, which overturned its registration, in effect banning its political activity. Controversial past Sheikh Hasina’s government imposed this ban because of the group’s troubling history. Their conduct during the war continues to fuel resentment among Bangladeshis.
Historical Context and Controversy
Jamaat-e-Islami’s role in the Liberation War has been a very long debated topic. The party’s top leadership actively supported Pakistan as East Pakistan, soon to emerge as independent Bangladesh, was fighting for freedom. This association has hurt the party’s image. It has even provoked a backlash from various parts of society.
In the face of such a turbulent legacy, Jamaat-e-Islami has continued to cultivate a dedicated base. New Jamaat-e-Islami chief Shafiqur Rahman admits the party’s mistakes during the war. He stated, “We, as individuals or as a party, are not beyond making mistakes,” emphasizing a willingness to reflect on their history.
Legal Developments and Political Implications
The Supreme Court’s recent ruling to restore Jamaat-e-Islami’s registration marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Bangladesh. The ruling gives the oppositionist party a legal path back into the political scene, which they have been excluded from for several years. It’s a good first step towards encouraging a more democratic, multiparty system across the country.
Lawyer for Jamaat-e-Islami, Shishir Monir, told reporters that he was hopeful of the ruling. He indicated that this legal victory would facilitate a “democratic, inclusive and multiparty system,” which could reshape the dynamics ahead of the elections.
Future Prospects
Now that its registration has been restored, Jamaat-e-Islami will be able to contest and musters a significant following foot in the next general elections. This creates a huge question about how the party will choose to brand itself and operate independent of a now-altered political landscape. Shafiqur Rahman extended an olive branch to the public, stating, “We seek your pardon if we have done anything wrong,” indicating an intention to reconnect with voters.
As Bangladesh approaches its next general election, the prospects for the political situation and climate are highly ambiguous. The return of Jamaat-e-Islami might change the voter dynamic and shift political alliances on the spectrum.
