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Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh Stages a Political Resurgence

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 10:03 GMT by The Hans India
      Locales: BANGLADESH, JAMAICA

Dhaka, Bangladesh - February 18th, 2026 - For years, Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh (JIB) operated in the shadows of Bangladeshi politics, a peripheral actor often dismissed as irrelevant. Today, a palpable shift is underway. The party is undertaking a deliberate and ambitious effort to not merely regain lost ground, but to establish itself as a primary opposition force and a significant influencer shaping the nation's political discourse. This isn't simply a cosmetic makeover; it represents a fundamental strategic reorientation, fueled by savvy use of digital platforms, targeted messaging, and a keen understanding of prevailing public sentiment.

Historically, JIB has faced significant headwinds. Following the 2010 war crimes trials and subsequent executions of leaders accused of atrocities during the 1971 Liberation War, the party experienced repeated bans, restrictions on its activities, and widespread public condemnation. These actions, while intended to suppress the party, arguably drove it underground, allowing it to recalibrate and develop a new strategy for resurgence. The party's association with extremist ideologies continues to be a point of contention and a barrier to broader acceptance.

The current repositioning isn't a sudden development. Over the past two years, JIB has been quietly building its capacity, particularly in the digital realm. While previously lagging behind other parties in online engagement, JIB now boasts a robust and growing presence on platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and, increasingly, TikTok. This isn't just about posting content; it's a sophisticated operation involving professionally produced videos, targeted advertising campaigns, and the strategic engagement of social media influencers. These influencers, often operating within specific demographic niches, help amplify JIB's message and reach previously inaccessible audiences.

"The key difference now is the intentionality and resources being poured into their digital strategy," explains Dr. Amina Khan, a political science professor at Dhaka University. "They've learned from the mistakes of the past and are no longer relying solely on traditional methods of campaigning. They're actively cultivating an online community and leveraging the power of social media to shape public opinion."

This online push is interwoven with a careful messaging strategy. JIB is now focusing less on religious dogma and more on practical issues that resonate with everyday Bangladeshis: economic hardship, rising inflation, unemployment, and perceived government corruption. By framing itself as the champion of the marginalized and the advocate for economic justice, JIB is attempting to broaden its appeal beyond its traditional support base. The party is skillfully exploiting public discontent with the Awami League's handling of economic challenges and allegations of widespread corruption.

However, challenges remain. The government remains acutely aware of JIB's resurgence and continues to monitor its activities closely. Any perceived attempt to incite violence or disrupt public order is met with swift and decisive action. Furthermore, the party's controversial past and association with extremist groups continue to haunt it, creating a significant hurdle to gaining mainstream acceptance. The lingering trauma of 1971 and the strong public sentiment surrounding the war crimes trials are not easily dismissed.

Moreover, JIB faces competition from other opposition parties, particularly the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which is also vying for the position of primary opposition. The struggle for votes will be fierce, and JIB's success will depend on its ability to effectively differentiate itself from its rivals and convince voters that it offers a viable alternative to the ruling Awami League.

The upcoming national elections, expected in late 2027 or early 2028, will be the ultimate test of JIB's strategy. Will their digital outreach and revised messaging resonate with voters? Will they be able to overcome the historical baggage and rebuild trust with the public? Can they navigate the complex political landscape and emerge as a genuine force to be reckoned with?

The answers to these questions remain unclear. However, one thing is certain: Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh is no longer a peripheral actor. It is a party on the move, determined to reclaim its place in the nation's political landscape. Its resurgence is disrupting the status quo and forcing other political players to reassess their strategies. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether JIB's gamble pays off and whether it can truly transform itself from a fringe group into a significant influencer in Bangladeshi politics.