Islami Andolan Bangladesh Ameer Mufti Rezaul Karim, widely known as Charmonai Pir, on Tuesday stated that July uprising was never intended to allow extortionists or killers to assume power.

He made the remarks while addressing a divisional gathering of eight Islamic parties in Barishal.

Rezaul Karim said that over the past 53 years, Bangladesh had been governed by BNP, Awami League and Jatiya Party (JaPa), yet the country had never truly been guided by Islamic principles.

“This time, people want to see the implementation of Islamic law and the Quran’s teachings in governance,” he added.

At the same rally, Jamaat-e-Islami Senior Nayeb-e-Ameer Mujibur Rahman said that the future of Bangladesh would be an Islamic Bangladesh.

He also criticised those who side with fascists or promise to withdraw Awami League cases, saying they betray the spirit of the July uprising.

Local and central leaders of all eight parties also addressed the gathering, offering prayers for the health of Khaleda Zia and Jamaat leader Dr Abu Taher.

The event, held at Bells Park, drew a large turnout of leaders and activists from across the region.