In his address to the 13th Parliament on Thursday, Opposition Leader and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Md. Shafiqur Rahman congratulated the newly elected Speaker and Deputy Speaker, while issuing a strong call for the new leadership to foster an environment of justice, fairness, and robust democratic engagement.

Following the election of the Speaker, Dr. Rahman expressed his gratitude to the citizens for exercising their voting rights, noting that their mandate had paved the way for a more representative legislative body.

He paid solemn tribute to the martyrs of the 1947, 1952, and 1971 independence struggles, as well as those who suffered under what he termed years of "fascist rule."

The Opposition Leader placed particular emphasis on the historic nature of the current assembly, explicitly linking the existence of the 13th Parliament to the victims of the recent July movement.

“This Parliament is not an ordinary one; it stands upon the blood of July,” he stated, while offering prayers for the deceased and wishing a swift recovery for those injured during the uprising.

Reflecting on the nation’s 55-year history, Dr. Rahman noted that parliamentary democracy had often been stifled by authoritarianism.

He criticized past administrations for failing to uphold the integrity of the institution, arguing that the Parliament had frequently been rendered ineffective.

Addressing the new Speaker, Dr. Rahman urged for neutrality in presiding over the House.

“We believe there will be no distinction between the treasury and opposition benches in your eyes. We hope we will receive justice and the opportunity to speak for the welfare of the nation,” he declared.

Furthermore, he stressed the need for a shift in parliamentary culture, urging members to avoid character assassination in favor of meaningful, public-interest debates.

He expressed optimism that the current House, which blends the energy of younger members with the wisdom of experienced lawmakers, will emerge as a productive and vibrant forum for national progress.