Opinion and criticism vital to democracy, says law minister

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Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman has said that accepting differing opinions and criticism is essential in a democratic society.

Speaking as a distinguished panelist at a book launching event at a Dhaka hotel on Thursday, he said people do not have to agree with every statement made by an individual or political party, but criticism should not be rejected simply because it is disliked.

The minister was speaking at the launch of Barrister Abdur Razzaq’s book, Jamaat-e-Islami: Its History and Politics. He described the work as more than a literary or research publication, saying it reflects the author’s philosophy, thoughts, consciousness and experiences.

Asaduzzaman said an Islamic governance system should emerge from society through Islamic values rather than being imposed from above.

Discussing the younger generation, he said society must adapt to change to move forward. He said the July mass uprising highlighted a generation’s desire for change, adding that Razzaq’s book also presents important views on political thought and change.

The minister also discussed Razzaq’s views on the 1971 Liberation War and the political circumstances of that period, saying his positions and statements were significant.

Regarding Razzaq’s political role, Asaduzzaman said that although he served as Assistant Secretary General of Jamaat-e-Islami, his actions, ideas, philosophy and principles gave him a distinct identity beyond his organisational position.

He also noted Razzaq’s efforts to promote international campaigns against fascism from a human rights perspective.

Recalling his personal and professional relationship with Razzaq, Asaduzzaman said they would meet over tea or speak by phone when he visited London. He added that Razzaq had expressed a wish while hospitalized near the end of his life to be buried in Bangladesh, a wish that was eventually fulfilled.

The law minister prayed for the departed soul and said people involved in politics should read Razzaq’s book.

Other panelists included Ali Riaz, John Danilovich, Dilara Chowdhury and Kamal Ahmed.