Shafiqur Rahman, head of Bangladesh’s Jamaat-e-Islami, is making headlines for a stunning policy shift following backlash against his anti-women rhetoric. After social media posts decrying working women’s public roles as societal ills, he’s now pledging unwavering defense of their security and prestige in a potential Jamaat-led government.
The initial uproar stemmed from Rahman’s weekend online outburst, which drew sharp rebukes from politicians, feminists, and everyday citizens. Critics argued it harked back to outdated norms clashing with Bangladesh’s progress in female workforce participation.
At a Kurigram rally, Rahman pivoted masterfully. ‘100% protection and respect wherever you are—home, street, or job,’ he assured, per The Daily Star. His rhetoric soared: ‘A nation failing its mothers isn’t mine. In my Bangladesh, mothers, sisters, daughters thrive safely, fearless and forthright.’
Adding intrigue, Rahman alleged BNP meddling via a hacked account to sabotage him. BNP’s Tarique Rahman had earlier lambasted Jamaat, declaring in Bonik Barta, ‘Insulters of women, confiners of mothers to kitchens, pose risks to all. They mock employment and betray patriotism.’
The debate intensified with Noorunnisa Siddika’s prior comments from Jamaat’s women division, positing Islamic doctrine precludes female top leadership, with men as divinely ordained guardians. ‘Focus on rights enforcement, not chairs,’ she posited.
Election season amplifies these tensions, positioning women’s issues as battleground. Rahman’s charm offensive targets a pivotal voting bloc, but analysts debate its authenticity. This flip-flop not only tests Jamaat’s adaptability but mirrors broader shifts in conservative politics navigating gender dynamics in Bangladesh.