Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Saturday alleged that although fascists have fled the country, the “shadow of fascism” continues to shape national politics.

He made the remarks at a divisional rally of eight Islamic and like-minded parties at Sylhet’s Aliya Madrasa Field.

He alleged that even after 54 years of independence, country’s citizens have struggled to “stand tall with dignity,” blaming what he termed systemic corruption, resource plundering, and the smuggling of wealth abroad.

He also referred humorously to past incidents involving individuals attempting to flee, saying some were “caught by the people of Sylhet wrapped in banana leaves.”

Rahman said that while one group had earned public resentment through “occupation and excesses,” another had emerged “more reckless.”

He alleged that political repression; including imprisonment and exile of opposition leaders and Islamic scholars, had not ended.

The Jamaat chief said the nation had expected a new beginning after decades of political struggle, but instead witnessed a continuation of old practices.

Referring indirectly to BNP, he said the public was “prepared to show a red card” in the next election and warned against attempts to disrupt the electoral process.

Any effort to “hijack the election through administrative means,” he said, would fail.

He also urged Islamic parties outside the coalition to join their alliance, promising a warm reception.

Addressing concerns about external pressure on domestic politics, Rahman said his supporters feared “no force except Allah” but respected all peace-loving nations.

Speakers from several Islamic parties and political groups also addressed the rally, chaired by Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis Ameer Mawlana Abdul Basit Azad.