Shafiqur Rahman calls for leadership to build society based on Quranic teachings

Opposition Leader and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has called on those who have memorised the Quran to take leadership in implementing its teachings in society.

“Those who carry the Quran in their hearts should be able to lead efforts to implement its teachings in society. We want to see you move from the mihrab to positions of leadership,” he said.

He made the remarks at the grand finale and prize-giving ceremony of the five-month-long “Hifzul Quran Competition 2026” at Shaheed Suhrawardy Indoor Stadium in Mirpur on Friday (16 October).

Mohammad Selim Uddin, chairman of the Urban Development Forum, member of Jamaat-e-Islami’s Central Executive Council and Ameer of Dhaka North City Jamaat, chaired the event.

Dr Shafiqur Rahman called on everyone to set aside minor differences and work together to build society in accordance with the Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Congratulating Ridwan bin Ali, who secured first place in the 10-juz category, the Jamaat Ameer announced that he would arrange Umrah for Ridwan’s parents and teacher at his own expense.

In his presidential address, Mohammad Selim Uddin said, “We have not gathered here merely to give or receive prizes. We have come to illuminate society with the light of the Quran and establish its teachings in society.”

He said they expected those who had memorised the Quran to uphold its teachings and perform the responsibility of inviting people towards Allah in various fields of society.

“Although we may differ in our opinions, we are united on the issue of the Holy Quran. Everyone must work together to establish the Quran of Allah on His earth,” he said.

Selim Uddin further said more than 100,000 Huffaz from over 800 Qawmi and Alia madrasas participated in the five-month-long competition.

“Despite differences in educational systems and identities, including Qawmi and Alia, everyone is united when it comes to the Holy Quran,” he said.

He said their goal was to establish the teachings and ideals of the Quran in individual, family and social life and build an ideal society based on justice and fairness.

Special guest MP Rafiqul Islam Khan said he was delighted to participate in the programme.

Describing the Holy Quran as a complete way of life for Muslims, he said thousands of people memorise the Quran in Bangladesh every year.