রিপোর্টারের নাম 
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Monday urged the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) to publicly explain his recent remarks regarding the attack on Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi.
He added that the statement had deeply hurt public sentiment at a time when the nation was already distressed.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman made the comments while addressing a discussion meeting organised by Dhaka Metropolitan South Jamaat-e-Islami at National Press Club on Monday, marking Victory Day.
Referring to the attempted killing of Sharif Osman Hadi; also a potential independent candidate from Dhaka-8 constituency, he said the entire nation is anguished by the “painful and cowardly attack.”
Against this backdrop, he added, the CEC’s statement had caused further hurt to the public.
“The head of Election Commission, who is currently in a highly responsible and neutral position, has made a statement that has come before the nation today. The nation has not received it well,” Dr Shafiqur Rahman said. “I humbly request him to explain his remarks to the people.”
Expressing concern over Hadi’s condition, the Jamaat chief said the injured leader had been taken to Singapore by air ambulance for treatment.
“We are deeply worried about his life. We pray to Almighty Allah for his recovery. Allah has the power even to restore life to the dead,” he said.
Addressing the CEC directly, Dr Shafiqur Rahman said it was his responsibility to remove the pain his remarks had caused and to prove that he is fit to hold such a sensitive and neutral position.
“You must clarify your statement before the nation without delay. If the people feel relieved by that explanation, it is good. Otherwise, the nation will decide,” he warned.
He also called on all individuals holding important state responsibilities to act with care and restraint.
“We expect responsible behaviour from everyone in positions of power. No one should act irresponsibly toward the nation,” he said.
Referring to recent calls for resignations, Dr Shafiqur Rahman said officials should instead prove their competence through responsible conduct.
“If you fail to do so, remember that August 5 will return again and again. But that is not what we want. Why should the nation repeatedly pay with blood?” he said, adding that Jamaat envisions a united, humane and corruption-free Bangladesh led by the youth.
Warning perpetrators of violence, he said attempts to intimidate the nation through cowardly attacks would fail.
“Every bullet you fire will give this nation new life. Be warned. If you choose the right path, it is good. If not, the nation will ensure that everyone pays their due,” he added.
Among others, Jamaat-e-Islami central assistant secretary general ATM Masum and Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan also spoke at the event.
