Bangladesh Court Reinstates Jamaat-e-Islami’s Registration
Bangladesh’s highest judicial authority has restored the registration of the Islamic opposition party Jamaat-e-Islami, overturning a longstanding High Court ruling from a decade ago. This decision clears the path for the group to take part in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
A four-judge panel from the Appellate Division, headed by Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed, directed the Election Commission to re-establish the party’s registration and address unresolved administrative matters.
Background and Legal Developments
The party’s registration was annulled in 2013 following arguments that its charter violated the nation’s principle of secularism. This suspension occurred during former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration, which also issued an executive order banning the party in 2023.
However, following political upheaval that saw Sheikh Hasina ousted and a transitional government led by Muhammad Yunus take charge, the previous ban was reversed in August 2024. Hasina subsequently left the country, seeking refuge in a neighboring nation.
Jamaat’s lawyer Mohammad Shishir Manir stated outside the court that the verdict affirms the country’s commitment to a multiparty democracy and fair elections. He dismissed the former ban as a politically driven maneuver.
Historical Context and Recent Political Shifts
Jamaat-e-Islami’s history in Bangladesh has been complex. Initially banned after the country’s independence in 1971 when several of its leaders sought refuge in West Pakistan, the party’s early years were marked by controversy. Its then-leader, Ghulam Azam, lost his Bangladeshi citizenship and lived in exile while rallying support abroad.
Following the assassination of President Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975, the party gradually re-entered the political arena under President Ziaur Rahman. Ghulam Azam was eventually allowed to return and take part in politics again. However, the 1990s saw increased public demonstrations against Jamaat-e-Islami’s wartime legacy, spearheaded by figures such as activist Jahanara Imam.
In the 2008 parliamentary elections, the party managed to secure only a handful of seats. The subsequent year, the High Court scrutinized the party’s registration, and in August 2013 declared Jamaat unfit for national elections due to its charter’s emphasis on divine authority over democratic norms.
During that timeframe, a number of the party’s senior figures faced trials and executions for alleged war crimes. Among them was Motiur Rahman Nizami, who was sentenced by the International Crimes Tribunal and executed in 2016. This period also saw the marginalization of Jamaat’s political partner, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
In February 2013, nationwide protests were triggered by the sentencing of another Jamaat leader, Delwar Hossain Sayeedi. The demonstrations led to violent clashes with security forces, resulting in numerous fatalities and attacks on Hindu communities and establishments.
Amid widespread student-led protests in 2023 and 2024, the government under Sheikh Hasina reimposed a comprehensive ban on both Jamaat and its student wing, Islami Chhatra Shibir, on August 1, 2024. This ban was rescinded less than a month later, on August 28, paving the way for the party’s political resurgence.
Looking Ahead
With the latest court ruling, Jamaat-e-Islami is now entitled to participate in the forthcoming 13th parliamentary elections, which are slated to take place later in the year. This development is expected to have a significant impact on Bangladesh’s political landscape and ignite renewed discussions about war crimes, accountability, and the role of religious parties in the nation’s democracy.
Embracing Faith, One Insight at a Time!
The teachings of the Quran have always guided my path. With a deep passion for Islamic knowledge, I strive to blend the wisdom of tradition with the relevance of today, making the timeless messages of Islam accessible and meaningful for everyone.
Muslim Culture Hub is my platform to share historical insights and thought-provoking articles, exploring both well-known and lesser-discussed aspects of Islamic culture and beliefs. My mission is to create an inclusive online space where everyone can learn, strengthen their faith, and connect with the profound message of Islam.
Join the journey!
May peace be upon you.
