"AL and Jamaat are Two Sides of the Same Coin": Mahfuj Alam Interview with Indian Media

During the interview aired on Thursday (January 29), Alam discussed the shifting political landscape and the challenges of implementing reforms. Explaining his decision not to contest the upcoming elections, he revealed his initial goal was to build a "Third Alternative" independent of the BNP-Jamaat axis. However, he noted that this dream was derailed when the NCP joined forces with Jamaat, aligning with the "old political settlement."

Alam criticized the alliance, stating that Jamaat is part of an outdated structure that fails to resonate with the ideologies of the new generation. He expressed disappointment, characterizing the current trajectory as a "betrayal" of the July movement’s core values, as the old system seems to be returning in a new guise.

Regarding governance, Alam warned that no future government—be it BNP or Jamaat—will remain stable unless social divisions are healed. He emphasized that legal reforms alone are insufficient; a "cultural renegotiation" between different faiths and opinions is essential to prevent mob violence. He also addressed the media's credibility crisis, suggesting that news outlets must address their past roles to regain public trust.