Demand Raised to Cancel Jamaat Ameer’s Candidacy over Misogynistic Remarks

Leaders of the Democratic United Front have demanded the cancellation of the candidacy of Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman over allegations of making derogatory and discriminatory remarks about women. In a joint statement sent to the media on Monday, they said that any individual or party that makes statements undermining the dignity of women has no moral right to participate in democratic politics.

In the statement, the leaders questioned, “How can those who demean women then ask for votes from them?” They said such remarks are not only disrespectful to women but also contrary to the spirit of the Liberation War, equality, and democratic values. They therefore called on women and progressive voters to reject Jamaat-e-Islami.

The leaders alleged that in an interview given to international media outlet Al Jazeera on January 29, the Jamaat ameer stated that “by virtue of creation, women are not suitable for top leadership positions in the party.” Later, posts from his social media accounts described women working outside the home as “moral degradation” and “another form of prostitution.” Jamaat, however, claimed that the relevant account had been hacked. Confusion further arose after a subsequent statement in which he spoke in favor of women’s leadership and empowerment.

According to United Front leaders, these statements are contradictory and represent an attempt to evade political responsibility. They said, “If there is truly a belief in women’s leadership, then why are there no women in the party’s top positions?” They argued that the denial of women’s leadership is rooted in the ideology of Jamaat’s founder, Maulana Maududi, and is consistent with the party’s core doctrine.

The statement was signed by leaders from various leftist and progressive parties, including BASD, CPB, JASAD, and the Revolutionary Communist League. They urged the Election Commission to conduct an immediate investigation and cancel Dr. Shafiqur Rahman’s candidacy.

Political analysts say that such controversy over women’s rights on the eve of an election could have a significant impact on the electoral landscape.