Hefazat chief praises Islami Andolan for cutting ties with Jamaat

Hefazat-e-Islam Amir Mohibullah Babunagari has congratulated Islami Andolan Bangladesh Ameer Mufti Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim for withdrawing from their political association with Jamaat-e-Islami ahead of the upcoming election.

In a statement sent to the media on Tuesday, Babunagari said Islami Andolan’s decision to distance itself from Jamaat -- which he described as “Maududi-inspired ideology” -- was a timely and courageous move aimed at safeguarding “Sunni beliefs”.

He said since the July uprising, Hefazat-e-Islam has been working for broader unity among Islamic forces under the guidance of scholars who adhere to what he termed “aqidah” (correct Islamic belief), while repeatedly urging political groups to avoid alliances with Jamaat.

“Alhamdulillah, I extend special congratulations to Islami Andolan Bangladesh for breaking free from the grip of Maududi-oriented Jamaat and choosing to adopt an independent political path. In Islamic politics, an independent path for those who stand for the truth was greatly needed. Insha Allah, this course will help create a more positive future for Islamic politics.”

Babunagari further claimed that continued alignment with Jamaat could have caused significant harm to Islamic political movements in Bangladesh, and expressed hope that Islami Andolan’s decision would prevent that risk.

Reiterating Hefazat’s position, he said the organisation would not support any political party in the upcoming election. However, he expressed optimism that voters would support parties that represent what he described as “pure Islamic values”.

He also urged voters to reject groups that, in his words, promote “Maududism and deviant belief” under the banner of Islam.