Jamaat Amir calls for release of Sifat, arrested for abusing PM

The Amir of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, has called for the release of college student Sifat Abdullah, who was arrested for posting a video on Facebook abusing the Prime Minister, the government and other concerned parties over the issue of extra electricity bills.

He made this call as the chief guest at the inaugural rally of the 11-party unity's peaceful long march from Dhaka to Chittagong in Motijheel in the capital on Saturday (September 5) morning.

'Release Sifat peacefully'

At the rally, Jamaat Amir Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said that a young man named Sifat said something in frustration and annoyance. He commented that he was arrested based on his speech.

He said, ‘A young man named Sifat, who was angry and upset, has been arrested in a way that Bangladesh has been turned upside down because of what he said.’

Claiming that Sifat was taken to the police station and tortured, the Jamaat Amir said, ‘Let him go. Let him go gently.’

He also said that if he is not released, the situation could go in a different direction. In this context, he cited the examples of the movement and struggle of Nur Hossain, Yasmin and Dr. Milon.

‘180 million people will roar as Sifat if necessary’

Clarifying that he did not support the language used by Sifat, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said that the language he used was unacceptable. However, he commented that the issue he protested about was related to the concerns of the people of the country.

The Jamaat Ameer said, "We want to make it clear that not with the language of Sifat's mouth, but on the issue he has protested, the 180 million people of Bangladesh will roar as Sifat if necessary."

In his speech, he called for giving importance to issues of public suffering, including electricity bills.

Announcement of stance against extortion and corruption in the seventh phase

At the rally, the Jamaat Ameer also highlighted various demands of the 11-party unity. He said that one more demand will be added to their announced six-point demands.

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said, "Our demand is clear, you have seen the six-point demand. Along with that, there will be a seventh point, we will not tolerate the existence of any extortionist and corrupt person in Bangladesh."

He said that it is important to take a strict stance against extortion and corruption in the interest of the people of the country.

Discussion on Sifat's arrest

After a video was posted on social media expressing anger over the excessive electricity bill, the issue of Sifat Abdullah's arrest has started being discussed in the political arena.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has given a speech demanding his arrest and release. At the same time, he did not support the language of Sifat's statement, but said that people have the right to protest against issues of public suffering like the electricity bill.

Through his speech at the Saturday rally, the demand for Sifat's release has gained a new dimension in the political discussion.