The National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam has urged political parties to prioritise justice and reforms, stating that his party is ready to assist in organising elections if consensus is reached on these issues.
“We are being blamed for engaging in the politics of delaying elections. But let me make it clear: do not engage in the politics of postponing justice and reforms. Reach a consensus on these matters, and we will help facilitate your elections,” Nahid said during an iftar event with the families of July-August uprising victims at Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka on Monday (March 10).
He also called on the government to announce a roadmap for achieving speedy justice and implementing necessary reforms. “We are not depending on anyone to fulfill the aspirations of the July uprising. We will make it happen ourselves,” he added.
Nahid said, “If elections are held without the trial of Hasina, there is no guarantee that the Awami League will not return to power.”
The NCP convener clarified that his party is not against elections. “We have formed this party to participate in elections. But first, we want to see visible progress toward justice and reforms,” he emphasised.
NCP Member Secretary Akhter Hossain echoed similar sentiments, accusing Sheikh Hasina of orchestrating conspiracies against Bangladesh from abroad. “We demand that she be brought back to the country and tried immediately. If that is not possible, efforts must be made to prosecute her in the international arena,” Akhter added.
He further noted that the government’s proposed reforms must be implemented in earnest to address the nation’s demands.
