Seven Islamic parties form a new alliance under Hefazat-e-Islam's supervision, with local government elections ahead

Seven Islamic parties formed a new alliance on 22 October under the direct supervision of Hefazat-e-Islam, the Qawmi madrasa-based non-political organisation.

The parties in the alliance are Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, Khelafat Majlis, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh, Islami Oikya Jote (Raji), Bangladesh Nezam-e-Islam Party and Bangladesh Khelafat Andolan.

The alliance is said to have been formed with the upcoming local government elections in view. Under the law, local elections will be non-partisan, meaning no one can be nominated on a party basis; parties cannot nominate candidates in local elections, but they can extend support.

Several of these seven parties are also in Jamaat-e-Islami's 11-party unity and in the BNP's alliance.

Two leaders, from Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolan Bangladesh, spoke about the matter. They believe the new alliance of seven political parties, formed through Hefazat's mediation, is not only about the upcoming local government elections; there are other realities of Bangladesh's current political situation behind it, although they did not spell those out.

Those leaders believe it is important for the parties and organisations that work to establish Islam to remain united. Even where political views and paths differ, Islamic parties need to stay united on some issues and need a common platform for that — and in that context, Hefazat-e-Islam is playing the role of an elder, or 'murubbi', in this process, according to the discussions.