NN Online:
The National Citizen Party (NCP) was forced to call off its scheduled rallies in Cox’s Bazar’s Eidgaon and Chakaria on Saturday following angry protests by BNP supporters over remarks made by NCP leader Nasiruddin Patwary.
During a rally earlier in the day at Shaheed Daulat Maidan in Cox’s Bazar, Nasiruddin, NCP’s chief organiser, made controversial comments referring to BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed as a “new godfather,” sparking outrage among local BNP activists.
In response, BNP loyalists gathered in protest at the planned rally sites, particularly in Chakaria, where they vandalised road dividers and blocked access routes. Law enforcement, including police and Army personnel, were deployed to restore order and prevent further escalation.
Unable to proceed with the rallies, NCP leaders departed Cox’s Bazar in a motorcade and redirected their journey toward Bandarban.
“We have crossed Chakaria, but some of our members are still stuck behind,” said SM Suja Uddin, NCP joint member secretary, at 5pm.
The disruption comes amid NCP’s ongoing “July March” programme, which has seen the party organising a series of rallies across the country. The incident highlights rising tensions among opposition factions as they navigate the post-uprising political landscape and jostle for influence.
