Opposition not in parliament for idle talk or history lessons: Jamaat ameer

The opposition is not in parliament for idle talk or to act as “masters of history,” but to speak for the distressed, said Opposition Leader and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman, vowing to continue the fight for workers’ rights both inside and outside the House.

He made the remarks at a workers’ rally held at the south gate of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque in Dhaka’s Gulistan this afternoon, marking International Workers’ Day. The programme was organised by Bangladesh Sramik Kalyan Federation.

Calling Bangladeshis working abroad “remittance warriors,” Shafiqur said they toil and send money home instead of building lives overseas, yet are denied due recognition. Despite the presence of missions and embassies, migrant workers face persistent harassment -- ranging from passport renewal hassles to lack of support after job loss.

He stressed the need to ensure their dignity and urged the government to stand by them. Questioning the effectiveness of some missions, he said embassies exist to serve citizens, not officials.

On May Day, he noted, workers’ rights remain largely unmet. Political pledges are made every year, but only a fraction is delivered.

He criticised left-leaning groups, alleging that movements often end up costing workers their lives, jobs, or safety, while leaders escape accountability. Rejecting “class enemy” rhetoric, he said, “We do not believe in politics of elimination, but in mutual respect and fairness.”

Shafiqur added that justice from employers ensures productivity, while exploitation harms both sides.

Among others, Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar and several central and city leaders addressed the rally, which was chaired by federation president Atikur Rahman.