Leader of the Opposition and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Wednesday warned against any attempt to take over or control Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC, saying the people will not accept any such move.

He alleged that the government is trying to hand over Islami Bank to individuals appointed during the previous “fascist” regime, adding that opposition leaders and activists were prepared to take to the streets to “rescue” the bank.

The Jamaat ameer made the remarks while speaking at an Eid reunion held at a convention centre in the capital’s Mirpur area.

He claimed that Tk 34,000 crore was looted from Islami Bank during the Awami League government, alleging further attempts to destabilise the banking sector.

Shafiqur Rahman said any damage to Islami Bank will severely impact the country’s economy.

He also urged the government to ensure stability in the banking sector and criticised the Bangladesh Bank governor over the current situation.

Expressing concern over the country’s overall situation, the Jamaat chief said the nation could not continue in its present state, questioning the future of those involved in what he described as political repression.

He said Jamaat will continue to act as a strong voice for the people and will not play the role of a “subordinate opposition.”

On extortion, Shafiqur Rahman said offenders do not belong to any single party, describing them as “opportunists,” and suggested that a collective political decision could help curb the problem.

He also said cooperation between the government and opposition could help resolve many national issues.

The opposition leader alleged a lack of effective exploration of new gas fields, saying frequent adjustments in gas tariffs are a “mockery of the people.”

He added that the country’s law-and-order situation deteriorated and called for reforms to build a just and welfare-oriented society.

The event was presided over by Kafrul West Thana Jamaat Secretary SM Raihan.