Bangladesh opposition leader warns of 'inevitable revolution', vows no compromise on referendum

Shafiqur Rahman, the chief of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and leader of the opposition, has issued a stark warning of an impending "inevitable revolution." He accused the current government of betraying the public's trust and vowed to resist any attempts to compromise on the demand for a referendum.

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Had you not betrayed the people, we would have had no reason to be restless. We will not sit idly by while the country falls apart.

Speaking at a rally marking the second anniversary of the "July Uprising," Rahman stated that the government had lost the people's mandate within months of taking office. He claimed that his party and its allies are facing pressure and inducements to abandon their demand for a referendum, but asserted their commitment to upholding the public's verdict, even at the cost of their lives.

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We are being pressured every day to compromise on this issue. We are being tempted with various offers. Before the people of this country, we want to make it clear that we will safeguard your verdict.

Rahman urged his supporters to prepare for this "revolution," emphasizing unity across all segments of society, similar to the "July movement of 2024." He encouraged activists not to fear imprisonment, repression, or execution, stating they would accept any hardship as a "garland of flowers" for the nation's liberation. He also raised concerns about a returning culture of fear and campus domination, calling for vigilance from students and educators.

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Everything suggests that another inevitable revolution is approaching. I call upon all of you to prepare for that revolution.

Further allegations leveled by Rahman included alarming levels of corruption and the government's alleged creation of artificial gas shortages to justify price increases. He invoked historical precedent, noting that past governments that disrespected public verdicts were forced to leave in disgrace. Special guest Col (retd) Oli Ahmad of the Liberal Democratic Party also spoke, suggesting internal party dissent against the prime minister, evidenced by recent attacks in different parts of the country. Mamunul Haque of Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish, another alliance partner, warned that violent politics must cease, or face public resistance.

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If the noose becomes necessary for the liberation of the nation, we will accept it as a garland of flowers.