Staff Reporter :
National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam has issued a stern warning, declaring that no new “godfathers” will be allowed to rise in Bangladesh under his leadership. Addressing a rally at Shaheed Daulat Maidan on Saturday, Nahid slammed the previous government’s alleged promotion of godfathers and criminal syndicates across the country, especially in areas like Cox’s Bazar and Narayanganj.
“During the previous government’s tenure, Cox’s Bazar had become a haven for terrorists and drug abuse. Just like Narayanganj, Cox’s Bazar had a ‘godfather’ who controlled the region,” said Nahid. “We have ended that system, and we will not let a new godfather emerge.”
Nahid’s comments were made during a street rally following the NCP’s “July March,” a series of protests calling for political reform and a more transparent government. The rally, which took place after the march, saw thousands of supporters gather at the Public Library premises, waving banners and chanting slogans against the fallen Awami League government.
The NCP leader also emphasized his party’s commitment to environmental conservation, especially in light of Cox’s Bazar’s growing tourism industry. “The Awami League has looted and displaced the people of Cox’s Bazar under the guise of tourism development,” Nahid stated. “We demand that the government declare the ‘July Charter’ by this month. We want to build a tourism industry that respects the environment and ensures the rights of local people.”
Rohingya crisis: A call for immediate action
On the ongoing Rohingya crisis, Nahid urged the government and the international community to expedite a solution that guarantees the safe and dignified return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar. He acknowledged the humanitarian plight of the Rohingya people but warned against prolonging Bangladesh’s responsibility for them.
“We have sympathy for the Rohingya people. They are stateless and have been deprived of their basic rights. But the solution is not for Bangladesh to bear this burden indefinitely. While we take responsibility, we must not ignore the welfare of the people of Cox’s Bazar,” Nahid stressed. “The security and law and order of the local population must be protected.”
The NCP convener’s comments came amid growing concerns about the impact of the Rohingya refugee camps on local communities, with Cox’s Bazar residents citing security concerns and disruptions to their daily lives due to the large refugee population.
The rally and March
The “July March” began at 1:00 PM from Cox’s Bazar Central Bus Terminal, where NCP workers were seen chanting slogans and holding up posters and placards calling for an end to corruption and the emergence of godfathers in politics. The march passed through the key streets of the tourist town before concluding in front of the municipality office.
Following the march, NCP leaders including Akhtar Hossain, Hasnat Abdullah, Nasir Uddin Patwari, Dr. Tasnim Zara, and SM Shuja Uddin joined the rally at Shaheed Daulat Maidan. The event was part of a nationwide push by the NCP to rally support for its political platform ahead of the upcoming national elections.
Nahid Islam’s fiery speech has intensified political tensions as the NCP continues its efforts to challenge the ruling government. His promise to eliminate the influence of political godfathers and his stance on the Rohingya issue resonates with local residents and activists who feel marginalized by the current administration. The coming weeks will likely see further demonstrations and political mobilization as the NCP pushes for reforms and accountability.
