On July 19, 2025, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami held its first-ever national rally at the historic Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka, marking a significant moment in the country’s political landscape. The event, which began at 2:00 PM with a recitation from the Holy Quran, attracted thousands of party supporters and activists from across Bangladesh, converging to press the party’s seven-point demand for electoral reforms and justice.
The rally saw a massive turnout, with supporters arriving in processions, chanting slogans, and carrying banners advocating for a fair and transparent electoral process. Key demands included proportional representation in national elections, justice for victims of political violence, and systemic reforms to ensure free and peaceful polls. The event, chaired by Jamaat Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, featured speeches from central leaders, emphasizing the party’s vision for governance rooted in Islamic principles and accountability.
Preparations for the rally were extensive, with around 10,000 volunteers managing crowds and traffic, 15 medical booths providing first aid, and special train services arranged to transport activists from regions like Mymensingh, Rajshahi, and Chattogram. The gathering caused significant traffic disruptions in Dhaka, particularly around Shahbagh, Farmgate, and Jatrabari, as supporters filled the streets and nearby areas like Ramna Park.
The rally’s significance was amplified by its historic venue, Suhrawardy Udyan, a site symbolic of Bangladesh’s Liberation War. This choice drew criticism from groups like the Bangladesh Chhatra Union, who called it a “stain” on the site’s legacy due to Jamaat’s controversial history. Despite this, the event proceeded peacefully, with cultural programs kicking off at 9:40 AM, featuring performances organized by Saimum Shilpi Goshthi.
Social media posts on X reflected the rally’s scale, noting the massive turnout and its role as a platform for Jamaat to assert its political presence ahead of the 2026 parliamentary election. The event underscores the party’s efforts to mobilize support and influence Bangladesh’s political discourse.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 19th, 2025
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