Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh expressed deep concern over clashes between NCP and BNP activists in Habiganj and called on all sides to sincerely ensure political coexistence. In a joint statement sent to the media on Wednesday, president Maulana Ubaidullah Faruq and secretary general Maulana Manzurul Islam Afendi urged responsible conduct from every political party.

The two leaders said intolerant political behaviour was not expected alongside the aspirations for a new Bangladesh that emerged through the July mass uprising. They said qualitative change in politics would not be possible without coexistence, and the desired transformed Bangladesh could not be built without such change. They urged parties to avoid discourteous and provocative conduct as well as violent reactions.

Jamiat said those in power must be especially cautious and responsible so opportunistic groups cannot use provocations to destabilise the country. The leaders also called on the administration to play a more vigilant and strict role in preventing political violence, including taking precautionary steps where tensions or disorder are anticipated. They urged restraint and peace from all sides and wished those injured a speedy recovery.