National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam has said that the party is preparing to contest the upcoming election independently, targeting all 300 constituencies.
“We have clearly stated that we are preparing for the election on our own, and our goal is to contest all 300 seats. However, out of respect for Khaleda Zia’s leading role in the fight to protect democracy, we will not field candidates in constituencies where she is contesting,” he said. “Apart from that, we will nominate candidates with the Shapla Koli (water lily bud) symbol in all other constituencies,” he added.
He made the remarks while speaking to the media after visiting the family of recently deceased July fighter Gazi Salauddin at Godnail in Siddhirganj, Narayanganj, around 11 am on Wednesday (5 November).
Nahid Islam said that a few days before his death, July fighter Gazi Salauddin had been harassed by local BNP leaders and activists. “This incident shows that July fighters across Bangladesh are facing security concerns. The National Citizen Party stands by them. However, it is not only our responsibility — the government and all political parties must share this duty. It was through the struggle of these people that we achieved success and ousted fascism,” he said.
He further said that although the interim government is responsible for ensuring proper treatment for the injured July fighters who took part in the mass uprising, it has failed to do so. “As a result, the death toll and the number of martyrs continue to rise. Gazi Salauddin was one of them,” Nahid Islam added.
He urged everyone not to forget the injured and martyred comrades amid the election fervor. “Otherwise, more people like Salauddin Bhai will lose their lives. There are also numerous complaints regarding the healthcare facilities promised by the government,” he said.
After his remarks, Nahid Islam visited the grave of Gazi Salauddin. Among others present were NCP Joint Member Secretary Abdullah Al-Amin, Central Organiser Shawkat Ali, Central Member Ahmedur Rahman Tonu, and Jatiya Juba Shakti Central Senior Vice-President Tuhin Khan.