Shafiqur Rahman, Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has accepted the party’s defeat in the 13th parliamentary election and pledged to play a “vigilant, principled and peaceful” role as an opposition force.

In a Facebook post shortly after midnight on Friday, Shafiqur said the party respects the overall outcome of the election and the rule of law, reaffirming its commitment to democratic politics.

Addressing supporters and volunteers, he expressed “profound respect and gratitude” to those who worked over the past months, saying many had devoted their time, energy and conviction to the campaign, while some faced intimidation and harassment for exercising their democratic rights.

“Your courage has strengthened our democracy,” he wrote.

Acknowledging the disappointment among party activists, the Jamaat chief said such feelings were natural after investing deeply in a political cause. However, he described the party’s performance as a “foundation” rather than a setback.

“With 77 seats, we have nearly quadrupled our parliamentary presence and become one of the strongest opposition blocs in modern Bangladeshi politics,” he said.

Referring to past political shifts, Shafiqur noted that electoral fortunes can change over time. He cited how the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) was reduced to 30 seats in 2008 before returning to form a government in 2026 after an 18-year journey.

“Democratic politics is a long road. Our path is clear: earn trust, hold power to account, and prepare responsibly for the future,” he said.

He stressed that leadership is tested not only during campaigns but also in how parties respond to the people’s verdict. “From the very beginning, we committed ourselves to a stable and functioning democratic order. That commitment remains firm,” he added.

Shafiqur said the party’s movement is not about a single election but about strengthening democratic culture, protecting citizens’ rights and building a just and accountable state.

“We will serve as a vigilant, principled and peaceful opposition, holding the government to account while contributing constructively to national progress,” he said, reiterating that the party’s commitment to peaceful politics remains “unshaken.”