Opposition leader and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has questioned whether the government has effectively “nationalised extortion” through a recent statement by the newly appointed minister for road transport, rail and shipping.
In a post on his verified Facebook page on Friday night, Shafiqur wrote, “Has the announcement of nationalising extortion been made through the minister of road transport and bridges of the newly formed government? How will the source of corruption be controlled? Nothing makes sense. From the very beginning, which direction is Bangladesh heading?”
Addressing citizens, he added, “Dear countrymen, to free ourselves from the shadow of extortion, we must resist. We are with you in this struggle, Insha’Allah.”
The remarks come after comments made by Shaikh Rabiul Alam, minister of road transport, rail and shipping, regarding funds collected in the name of transport owners’ and workers’ organisations.
His statement drew widespread criticism and triggered strong reactions.
In that context, Shafiqur raised concerns over possible mismanagement and corruption linked to extortion in the transport sector.
