Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has said that if his party comes to power, it will ensure representation of expatriate Bangladeshis in the national parliament.

"If our party assumes the responsibility of running the country, representation of expatriates in parliament will be ensured," he said.

Currently visiting the United States, the Jamaat ameer made the remarks on Friday (October 24) local time while delivering the keynote speech as the chief guest at a civic reception in New York.

The Jamaat chief highlighted the contributions and sacrifices of expatriate Bangladeshis to the country's economy.

He also recalled how many expatriates withheld remittances during the July uprising as a protest against the fallen Sheikh Hasina-led government. "Your decision not to send remittances shook the ground beneath the oppressor's feet," he said.

Shafiqur Rahman added, "If Allah grants us the opportunity to serve the nation in government, this demand [expatriate representation in parliament] will be fulfilled, Inshallah."

He also outlined his party's priorities in various sectors, including education, the economy, employment, the judicial system, and international relations, if elected to power.

He emphasised that both the dignity and security of women would be ensured.

The Jamaat chief urged expatriates to exercise their right to vote in Bangladesh's democratic process. "Do not forget to cast your vote—vote for whoever you like, whichever party or candidate you prefer. What matters is that you vote," he said.

Addressing the event as a special guest, SM Khaliduzzaman, Jamaat's possible nominee for the Dhaka-17 constituency, said expatriates have long faced discrimination in Bangladesh.

"Everyone benefits from them, but they are denied their due rights. If Jamaat forms the government, protecting their rights will be among its top priorities," he added.

The event was presided over by Professor Nurul Islam.

Jamaat-e-Islami USA spokesperson Professor Naqibur Rahman and Professor Iqbal Hossain, among others, also spoke at the event.