New platform formed at Hefazat’s initiative, two parties from Jamaat-led alliance join
At a meeting of seven Islamic groups held on Thursday at the Makhzanul Uloom Madrasa in Khilgaon, Dhaka where a decision was reached to form a platform called ‘Like-minded Islamic Parties.’ Collected photo.
Discussions about forming a new alliance began after a meeting between the chief of Hefazat-e-Islam and leaders of Islamic parties in Fatikchhari, Chattogram, in July. The initiative has now progressed considerably and evolved into a political platform.
Seven parties from the Qawmi madrasa tradition have joined the platform, named “Like-Minded Islamic Parties.” Among them are Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis and Bangladesh Nezam-e-Islam Party, both members of the 11-party alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami.
The other five parties are Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Khelafat Majlis, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh, Islami Oikya Jote, Bangladesh Nezam-e-Islam Party and Bangladesh Khelafat Andolan.
The decision to establish the new platform was taken at a meeting of leaders from the seven parties held on Thursday at Makhjanul Ulum Madrasa in Khilgaon, Dhaka. The meeting was chaired by Hefazat-e-Islam Secretary General Sajidur Rahman.
Following the meeting, party leaders said Hefazat-e-Islam had played a role in forming the platform to strengthen coordination and facilitate joint efforts on issues of common interest.
Hefazat leaders said they would not directly lead any political alliance but would instead serve as guardians or senior advisers.
