Desk Report:
At the initiative of expatriate Bangladeshis living in Japan, a colorful civic reception was given to the Leader of the Opposition in the Bangladesh National Parliament and the Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Dr. Shafiqur Rahman MP. The program became lively and significant with the spontaneous participation of expatriate Bangladeshis.
The reception was organized by the Islamic Mission Japan at 3:30 pm on Monday (4 May 2026) at the Takinogawa Hall in Kaminakazato area of Tokyo. Dr. Shafiqur Rahman MP was present as the chief guest at the program. Saiful Alam Khan Milon MP, Executive Council Member of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, and Barrister Mir Ahmad Bin Kasem Arman MP, Foreign Affairs Advisor to the Ameer, were present as special guests. The event was presided over by Hafez Maulana Saber Ahmed, Central President of Islamic Mission Japan.
The event began with the recitation of the Holy Quran conducted by Engineer Abdullah Al Maruf, Central Secretary General of Islamic Mission Japan. Later, cultural performances in Bengali, Arabic and Japanese with the participation of expatriate children and teenagers captivated the audience.
In his speech as the chief guest, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said that their struggle will continue inside and outside the parliament to build a corruption-free, good governance-based and humane Bangladesh. He said, “1947, 1971 and the recent movement—there is sacrifice of the people of the country in every chapter. Our goal is to build a corruption-free state to protect the dignity of that sacrifice.”
Remembering the martyrs, he said that the contribution of those who sacrificed themselves in the history of the country should be equally evaluated and all criminals should be brought to justice.
Addressing the expatriates, he called on them to contribute to the country’s economy through remittances in addition to acquiring knowledge and skills. He said that after pursuing higher education abroad, one should play a role in the development of the country and return to the country or from abroad.
Expressing gratitude for the support of the expatriates in the 13th National Parliament elections, he said, “Your trust has further increased our responsibility. As representatives of the people, we will continue to stand against corruption.”
For the Bangladeshis living in Japan, he emphasized the importance of abiding by the laws and regulations of the country and showing respect for the local culture. At the same time, he called for preserving the culture and values of Bangladesh among the new generation.
Speaking as a special guest, Saiful Alam Khan Milon MP said that the participation of the expatriates made the reception meaningful and the opposition will play the highest role in protecting their rights.
Barrister Mir Ahmad Bin Kasem Arman MP said that the recent mass movement has created a new trend in the country’s politics. To make this progress successful, the combined efforts of all Bangladeshis at home and abroad are required.
Prominent figures from the expatriate community, business representatives ATM Misbahul Kabir Chowdhury, Abdul Malek and many others were also present at the event.
In the closing speech of the president, Maulana Saber Ahmed said that everyone should work together to strengthen unity among Bangladeshis living in Japan and to portray a positive image of Bangladesh in Japanese society.
