Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s much-anticipated national rally commenced at Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital on Saturday afternoon (July 19), with the party reiterating its seven-point demand.

The rally, presided over by Jamaat Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, officially began at 2:00 pm with a recitation from the Holy Quran.

Thousands of leaders, activists, and supporters from across the country gathered at the historic venue, many wearing T-shirts and traditional attire adorned with the party’s symbol — the scales. Several groups were seen arriving in processions from various districts by bus, train, and launch.

Earlier in the day, the first phase of the event featured cultural performances and religious recitations, led by artist Saifullah Mansur. The crowd continued to swell throughout the morning in and around Suhrawardy Udyan, with party members occupying nearby areas including the High Court, Matsya Bhaban, and Shahbagh.

Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar expressed gratitude for the large turnout and favourable weather, stating, “Alhamdulillah, our rally has already turned into an ocean of people.”

The party’s seven-point charter of demands includes ensuring a level playing field for free and fair elections, the trial of genocide crimes, major political reforms, implementation of the "July Charter," and rehabilitation of those killed or injured in the July uprising. Jamaat is also advocating for the introduction of a proportional representation system in national elections and voting rights for over one crore expatriate Bangladeshis.

This is the first time Jamaat-e-Islami is holding a national rally independently at Suhrawardy Udyan, a site deeply rooted in the country’s political history.

Security has been heightened in surrounding areas as the event continues.

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