Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb-e-Ameer Dr Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher has said his party supports sustainable democracy and wants elections that are free, fair, and broadly participatory—though not involving the Awami League.

“By participatory election, we mean one that ensures the participation of the people, not the Awami League,” Dr Taher said while addressing an event titled ”NRB Connect Day: Empowering Global Bangladeshis” in New York on Saturday evening.

He noted that the country’s 40 million young people are eager for political change. “We must move forward by respecting the sentiments of the youth. Otherwise, July will return again and again with the help of the youth,” he warned, referring to mass movements against misrule.

Dr Taher welcomed the presence of diverse political stakeholders during Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus’s U.S. visit, calling it a positive sign. “Can’t we be united on some issues in the interest of the country?” he asked.

Highlighting the achievements of Bangladeshi students and professionals abroad, he said the nation has strong potential but continues to be hampered by corruption, weak governance, and a lack of discipline in public services. “If these issues are addressed, Bangladesh will truly emerge as a tiger on the world stage,” he said.

The Jamaat leader reaffirmed his party’s commitment to independence, sovereignty, and building a welfare state. He also pledged equality for all citizens, regardless of gender, political affiliation, or religion. “There will be no discrimination among the people of Bangladesh,” he said.

Dr Taher added that Jamaat’s foreign policy seeks ties with all nations, including neighbours, based on honesty, equality, dignity, and mutual respect.

The event was attended by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus as chief guest. Other speakers included BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir, Jamaat US spokesperson Mohammad Nakibur Rahman, and NCP Member Secretary Akhter Hossen.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, Special Envoy on International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, and BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun also spoke.