Shamim Ahsan, Assistant Secretary of the Barisal district branch of Jamaat-e-Islami, has been relieved of all party responsibilities. Additionally, his party membership (Rukun) has been suspended. The decision was formally announced last Monday through a statement signed by the district Amir, Maulana Mahibullah Harun.
The disciplinary action follows controversial remarks made by Ahsan during the election campaign in Barisal-2 (Bamna-Pathorghata-Betagi constituency). On Saturday, 25 January 2026, he delivered a speech at a public rally in Katakhali, Pathorghata, in support of Jamaat’s candidate, Sultan Ahmed. During the address, Ahsan claimed that the Islamic Chhatra Shibir’s role against drug dens and unlawful activities at Dhaka University could eradicate “all injustice, corruption and extortion in Bangladesh.”
Following the dissemination of his comments on social media, widespread criticism and public outrage ensued. Citizens from various professional and social backgrounds, including current and former students of Dhaka University, expressed their shock and disapproval.
The official statement from the Barisal district office noted that Ahsan’s remarks were inconsistent with the principles and ethos of Jamaat-e-Islami, causing damage to the party’s image. Accordingly, the district working committee resolved to relieve him of all responsibilities and suspend his membership (Rukun) status.
Summary of Key Details
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Position & Responsibility | Barisal District Jamaat-e-Islami, Assistant Secretary; Member (Rukun) |
| Reason for Relief | Controversial statements; violation of party principles |
| Place & Date of Comments | Katakhali, Pathorghata, 25 January 2026 |
| Impact | National criticism; damage to party image |
| Formal Decision | Relieved of all responsibilities; membership suspended |
| Authority Issuing Decision | District Amir, Maulana Mahibullah Harun |
Maulana Mahibullah Harun told Prothom Alo, “Shamim Ahsan’s statements do not align with our party’s principles and ethos. They have undermined the reputation of Jamaat-e-Islami.”
Furthermore, Afroz, a resident of Badurtala village in Pathorghata, has lodged a written complaint with the district returning officer, citing violations of the election code of conduct. The incident is expected to have significant implications for electoral transparency and adherence to conduct rules in the upcoming elections.
The development has sparked a broader conversation about political accountability, party discipline, and the role of social media in amplifying controversial statements. Analysts suggest that such incidents may influence not only local party structures but also public perception of political integrity at the national level.