BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas on Wednesday claimed that Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has never been able to engage in civil politics and Awami League has historically been a more fitting counterpart for the party.

Speaking at the inauguration of a medical camp at Siddheswari Balur Math, Abbas said, “Awami League is an indecent party and Jamaat is an uncivilised one. Awami League acts like a medicine to keep Jamaat under control.”

He alleged that Jamaat never wanted an independent Bangladesh, recalling that members of Razakar and Al-Badr forces collaborated with Pakistani occupation army during the Liberation War.

“Those same people are now seeking votes and making bold statements,” he added.

Accusing Jamaat of misusing religion, Abbas said the party followed “Moududism” rather than the true spirit of Islam.

“They only carry the label of being Muslims,” he remarked.

Calling on the public to remain vigilant, he said, “People of this country may not all be highly educated, but they are not foolish.”

During the event, Abbas also sought prayers for BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.