Islami Andolan Bangladesh’s Amir and Charmonai Pir, Mufti Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim, stated that despite 55 years since independence, the people of Bangladesh have not yet experienced the true essence of freedom. Speaking at a discussion titled “Expectations of Independence and Our Achievements in National Life” at the National Press Club’s Abdus Salam Hall on Thursday, he said the nation’s founding goals of equality, human dignity, and justice remain unfulfilled.

He recalled that after the August 5 uprising, hopes were raised for building a people-oriented Bangladesh, and Islamist parties had advanced toward consensus. However, he accused a power-hungry group of destroying that environment and misleading people through misinterpretations of Islam. Addressing the Prime Minister, he pledged cooperation if the government works for the welfare of the country, Islam, and humanity, but warned of protest otherwise. He urged control of commodity prices, prevention of food adulteration, and action against drugs, while calling for implementation of the July Charter and legal recognition of referendums.

Karim also condemned U.S. actions in Iran as violations of international law and criticized Israel for destabilizing the Middle East through warlike behavior.