He made this remark on Friday (July 31) afternoon while addressing the triennial national conference of the Bangladesh Transport Workers' Federation at the National Press Club as the chief guest. The conference was presided over by the federation's central president, Kabir Ahmad.
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said that a recent statement by a senior government leader acknowledged the rise in corruption. He said, "He stated that even during the five months of this government, corruption has not stopped; rather, it has increased. If the government itself admits its failure, then it no longer retains the moral authority to run the country."
He further said that the state is run on the instructions of the head of government. Therefore, the government cannot evade responsibility for failing to curb corruption.
Regarding extortion, the Jamaat Ameer said that statements from government officials show a tendency to legitimize extortion. He alleged that transport workers are facing constant harassment due to extortionists. When they refuse to pay extortion money, they are subjected to beatings and vandalism of their vehicles.
He said, "Rights have not been established in society; rather, there is a scramble over rights. The people of the ruling party are responsible for all this."
Criticizing the government, he further said, "If there is a ghost inside the mustard seed, then it is difficult to exorcise that ghost. But Insha'Allah, this ghost will be driven out from Bangladesh."
Referring to the July movement, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said it was not a movement of any single party or group; rather, it was an achievement of the 180 million people of the country. Therefore, no single political party can unilaterally claim credit for this achievement.
He said the martyrs of July are the nation's asset. Their families must be ensured due respect and dignity. Simultaneously, calling for honoring the people's verdict, he said, "Rejecting a referendum or the people's verdict means insulting the people."
Addressing the workers, he urged them to take a stand against injustice and corruption, saying, "Do not commit any wrongdoing yourself, and do not allow anyone else to commit wrongdoing either."
Special guests at the conference included Jamaat-e-Islami Assistant Secretary General Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan, MP, and Bangladesh Workers' Welfare Federation Central President Advocate Atikur Rahman.
