Who want to remove Akhtar? Unpacking the sudden debate
Since Saturday (February 15), a sudden and heated discussion has emerged regarding the role of Akhtar Hossain in the upcoming new political party formed in the wake of the July Uprising. As tensions rise, key figures from both the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and the National Citizens Committee are voicing their support for Akhtar, raising questions about who opposes him and why.
Akhtar Hossain played a pivotal role during the mass uprising that ousted the Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina. On July 17, 2024 while leading a funeral procession for martyrs of the movement—including Abu Sayeed—he was arrested in front of the Raju Memorial Monument at Dhaka University'. After his release, he became the member secretary of the National Citizens Committee, which was instrumental in unifying anti-fascist forces.
However, as the formation of a new political party gains momentum, discussions around leadership roles have reignited. With Adviser Nahid Islam set to lead the party as president or convener, debates focus on selecting the second-in-command—either as general secretary or member-secretary.
Opposition to Akhtar
A faction within the National Citizens Committee opposes Akhtar Hossain's inclusion as the General Secretary of the new party. Their arguments include:
- Lack of participation in later stages: Critics argue that Akhtar was incarcerated after July 17 and did not contribute significantly to the turning points of the movement.
- Current role conflict: As the existing member secretary of the Citizens Committee, some believe his transition to the new party requires fresh leadership dynamics.
This faction reportedly favours either Ali Ahsan Junaid, former president of DU unit Islami Chhatra Shibir and Joint Convener of the Citizens Committee, or Nasiruddin Patwari, founding Convener of Bangladesh Chhatra Paksha, a sister organisation of the Amar Bangladesh Party.
Support for Akhtar
Another faction strongly backs Akhtar Hossain, citing his sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the cause. Leaders active in the student movements emphasise:
- Bravery against oppression: Akhtar risked his life repeatedly, facing attacks, injuries, and imprisonment under the Awami League regime.
- Consistent leadership: He stood firm against the banned Chhatra League, even when subjected to relentless persecution.
Abdul Hannan Masud, Chief Coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, who wrote on Facebook: "I came to anti-fascist politics with the help of Akhtar Hossain. His love for this country and its people has always inspired us."
Nusrat Tabassum, another leader of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, expressed her loyalty: "Akhtar Hossain Bhai is my pir. My entire political life is dedicated to him. Wherever my brother stands and calls, I will stand there too."
Writer and online activist Sadiqur Rahman Khan warned against sidelining Akhtar, saying: "If this party excludes a commander like Akhtar Bhai, who has led every war against Hasina, then I will never see myself in this party."
He questioned the credibility of those doubting Akhtar’s contributions, asserting that excluding him would undermine the legitimacy of the broader anti-Hasina struggle.
Context and rivalries
Adviser Nahid Islam, expected to head the new party, shares historical ties with Akhtar Hossain. Both were integral to early student movements; Nahid served as founding member secretary of Ganatantrik Chhatra Shakti, while Akhtar acted as its founding convener. Despite this shared legacy, concerns persist about integrating Akhtar into the new party structure.
Insiders reveal personal rivalries dating back years. For instance:
- During the formation of Ganatantrik Chhatra Shakti, Chhatra League attacked Akhtar Hossain near Shamsunnahar Hall. At the time, Mahfuj Alam, now an adviser in Dr Yunus’ cabinet, publicly criticised Akhtar's political activities on social media.
- Followers of Mahfuj Alam and thinker Farhad Mazhar allegedly seek to establish their own circles within the new party, sparking internal divisions.
Emerging factions and social media battles
In recent days, factions within the Citizens Committee have become increasingly visible on social media platforms. While one group champions Akhtar Hossain's candidacy, others push for alternative leaders such as Ali Ahsan Junaid or Nasiruddin Patwari. These debates reflect deeper ideological splits and power struggles shaping the nascent party.
Despite unity during the initial stages of the Citizens Committee, divisions have surfaced ahead of the party launch. Central Executive Committee members contacted by Jago News declined to comment openly but acknowledged ongoing deliberations. A meeting scheduled for today aims to address these contentious issues.