Staff Correspondent :
Nahid Islam, the convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has announced that his party will contest the upcoming national election independently, without forming alliances at this stage. “We have made it very clear that we are preparing to contest the election on our own. Our goal is to field candidates in all 300 constituencies,” Nahid said. “However, out of respect for those who have played a leading role in the struggle for democracy, we will refrain from fielding candidates in certain constituencies for instance, in the seat of Begum Khaleda Zia.”
Speaking further, Nahid added, “We are determined to field candidates in most constituencies across the country. What we have seen over the years is that people with money and muscle power the so-called godfathers dominate elections. We want to challenge that culture. We want to see honest and respected individuals hardworking people, teachers, imams, and community leaders representing the people in Parliament.” Addressing the possibility of alliances or coalitions, he stated, “Any form of understanding or alliance must come from an ideological standpoint. If any political party expresses solidarity with the reform demands outlined in our ‘July Charter,’ we may then consider forming an alliance. By November 15, we will publish our preliminary list of candidates.” Nahid made these remarks on Wednesday (November 5) at noon after visiting the family of Gazi Salahuddin, who died from injuries sustained during the July Movement, in Siddhirganj, Narayanganj. He also announced his party’s commitment to stand by the bereaved family. “Thousands of July warriors are still suffering from their injuries. The
interim government had a responsibility to ensure their proper medical treatment, but their failure has increased the number of our martyrs,” he said. “We call upon the government to take full responsibility for the
treatment and welfare of the wounded. Many need long-term medical care. If that is not ensured, such tragic incidents will continue to occur.” He also urged that “amid the noise of election campaigns, we must not forget the families of our wounded and martyred comrades. The next elected government, whoever it may be, must make a clear commitment to the treatment and rehabilitation of these injured fighters. We are
standing by the family of Gazi Salahuddin and will demand that the state take full responsibility for their well-being.” Nahid further revealed that Gazi Salahuddin had faced harassment by some local BNP members shortly before his death. “In various areas,
July Movement fighters are facing political pressure and threats. We are with them, but the government must also act responsibly. It is because of their struggle that we now have the foundation of a new Bangladesh,” he asserted.
After delivering his speech, Nahid Islam visited and offered prayers at Gazi Salahuddin’s grave. Among those present were NCP’s Central Joint Member Secretary and Head of the Disciplinary Committee Abdullah Al Amin, Central Joint Member Secretary Tamim Ahmed,
Central Organizer Shawkat Ali, Central Member Ahmedur Rahman Tonu, and Senior Vice-President of the National Youth Force Tuhin Khan, among others.
