Mahfuj clarifies he issued warning, not threat to ‘Tawhidi Janata’
Mahfuj Alam, adviser to the interim government, clarified that he did not threaten individuals identifying themselves as “Tawhidi Janata,” but rather issued a warning. He explained his position in a Facebook post on Tuesday night (February 11).
In the post, the adviser wrote, “I have no hatred towards you, but like all citizens of Bangladesh, I have compassion for you. I have respect for alems. As a devout Muslim myself, I am a monotheist. However, when extremism is shown in the name of Tawhid, it is my duty as a responsible person to warn about the impending consequences.”
He further emphasised, “For the past 15 years, you have endured oppression and have contributed to the revolution, presenting a national possibility like every other citizen. However, due to the mob culture, this potential is being trampled. In this case, it is up to you to protect that possibility.”
He continued, “Bangladesh now needs stability. Revolutionary people and fragmented mobs are two different things. The goal-less, aimless mob culture benefits our enemies. To preserve the integrity, security, and discipline of the state, we must be firm.”
The adviser added, “This warning of firmness is for the criminals who, in the name of Tawhid, are perpetrating oppression and chaos. However, the persecution of ordinary Muslims due to Islamophobia in the past, which I too have suffered from, must never be repeated.”
He also wrote, “Alem-ulema, madrasa students have been victims of oppression for the last 15 years. They have shed blood in this recent uprising. But if we do not show wisdom in protecting the freedom gained through so much bloodshed, then the tyranny that will descend upon us—if I am wrong in issuing this warning—then I have nothing more to say. I seek refuge from Allah from being either an oppressor or oppressed.”
In conclusion, he wrote, “P.S. Attacking individuals, questioning or attacking personal beliefs, threatening or humiliating family members, etc., are actions that should be avoided by everyone who follows the Prophet (PBUH). Let us move forward, leaving behind division and hatred, and work together to build a state for all. The foundation of the new Bangladesh should be mutual respect and dignity among us.”
