When Political Pariahs Become Convenient Partners
THE ACTORS: Who is involved in this story? Shafiqur Rahman: Leader of Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), an Islamist political party in Bangladesh. His party was barred from contesting elections in 2013 by the High Court, citing its charter's conflict with the secular constitution. Western Diplomats: Specifically mentioned are representatives from the US and UK. US Ambassador Peter Haas and British High
Commissioner Sarah Cooke are noted for their increased engagement with opposition figures, including Rahman. Bangladesh Awami League (AL) government: The ruling party, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which has historically taken a strong stance against JeI due to its collaboration with Pakistani forces during the 1971 Liberation War. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP): The main opposition
party, which has historically allied with JeI. THE FUNDING: Where does their money come from? The financial backing for Jamaat-e-Islami remains opaque, but historically, groups with Islamist ideological leanings in the region have received substantial funding from foreign religious charities and Gulf states. While specific figures for JeI are not publicly disclosed, the party's extensive network
of schools, hospitals, and businesses suggests significant, multi-source financial support. Western diplomatic missions operate on budgets allocated by their respective states (e.g., US Department of State, UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office), reflecting strategic foreign policy interests rather than direct financial flows to JeI. However, aid and development funds can be leveraged as