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Jamaat Leaders Defend Ban on Women in Top Posts, Spark Protests
Feb 02, 2026Senior leaders of the women’s wing of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami have defended the party’s longstanding policy that bars women from holding top leadership positions, citing religious beliefs. Their remarks have triggered strong criticism and protests, with opponents accusing the party of promoting patriarchal values and undermining gender equality.
Speaking on Sunday, women’s wing secretary Nurunnisa Siddika said Jamaat-e-Islami is an Islamic organisation and believes that leadership roles should be held by men. She argued that, according to the party’s interpretation of Islam, men are considered guardians of women and therefore women cannot become the ameer, or chief, of the party. Siddika added that ensuring women’s rights is more important than appointing women to top leadership positions.
The comments come amid widespread public anger over a controversial social media post linked to Jamaat’s ameer, which many critics described as insulting to working women. The post has intensified scrutiny of the party’s views on women’s participation in public and professional life.
In response, protests have erupted in Dhaka and several other parts of the country. Students, women’s rights groups and political organisations have staged demonstrations demanding a public apology from Jamaat-e-Islami leaders. Protesters have also warned of larger nationwide demonstrations if the party does not address what they describe as its anti-women stance.
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