The Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, the country’s largest Islamist party, is poised to unveil a dramatic change to its official emblem – one that drops a Quranic text and introduces imagery resembling the national flag. The move has already sparked quiet debate within the party and wider political circles, as Jamaat appears to signal a strategic rebranding.

A flag-inspired identity

The proposed emblem, displayed on the wall of the Amir’s office during a meeting with Spanish Ambassador Gabriel Cistiaga Ochoa de Chinchetru on September 28, resembles Bangladesh’s red-and-green national flag but retains Jamaat’s long-standing electoral symbol: the scales.

The image quickly spread, prompting discussion among Jamaat members and speculation outside the party about its significance. 

“Our logo is being changed. Several designs have been created under the direction of the Amir,” Jamaat Central Executive Council member Maulana Abdul Halim confirmed. “The logo that appeared in the photo was not finalised – it was accidentally visible. But discussions have taken place in the executive council, and a final design will be declared soon.”

A break with tradition

The current emblem carries Islamic iconography: the name of Allah, the scales, and part of verse 13 of Surah Ash-Shura (“Aqimud Deen”). 

The party refrained public use of this emblem when the party changed its official name to Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami from Jamaat-e-Bangladesh, which was similar to Jamat-e-Islami Pakistan. Since then till date, the party used no official logo and the media used a Jamaat-created graphic design featuring the party’s name and website. 

By moving away from Quranic text and closer to national symbolism, Jamaat seems to be shifting its identity from one rooted in overt religious reference to one that blends more easily with mainstream political branding.

For a party that has faced legal restrictions, electoral exclusion, and persistent criticism for its role in 1971 war of independence, the redesign may reflect an attempt to appear less sectarian and more national in scope.

Strategy behind the symbol

Political observers note that the emblem change could be more than cosmetic. With Bangladesh’s next general election looming, Jamaat may be trying to soften its image to appeal to younger voters, diplomatic partners, and the Election Commission, which has historically scrutinised the party’s religious rhetoric.

“Symbols carry meaning beyond design,” one Dhaka-based analyst observed. “By aligning with the national flag, Jamaat is trying to present itself as a mainstream political force, rather than one confined to Islamist identity.”

Between identity and legitimacy

Jamaat leaders, however, remain cautious. Abdul Halim insisted the party “never officially used” its previous logo, claiming it was often circulated by the media rather than adopted formally. That statement has raised eyebrows, since the emblem has long been associated with Jamaat’s public identity.

The ambiguity mirrors the party’s delicate balancing act: between remaining true to its Islamist roots and seeking wider legitimacy in a political landscape where overt religiosity is often contested.