National Citizen Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam said that preparations were under way for renewed street mobilisation, stressing that the issue goes beyond party politics and relates to what he described as the protection of Bangladesh and the legacy of the July mass uprising.
He made the remarks at a meeting with families of martyrs and injured participants of the July uprising held at the auditorium of the Institution of Diploma Engineers Bangladesh in the capital on Sunday.
Nahid Islam said, “We are preparing for the movement again. This is not a matter of any party or alliance, it is a matter of protecting Bangladesh and protecting the July mass uprising.” He added, “Although we could not stand by you fully during the interim government, we tried our best. We want to see what this government has done more for the July fighters than the previous government.”
He alleged that there had been limited progress in implementing initiatives such as the July Directorate and the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation. “There will be a call to you. We are united regardless of party or opinion. We will ensure that the blood of the martyrs does not go in vain,” he said.
Referring to future mobilisation, he stated, “You have already made sacrifices in the street movement. This time, you will not be in the front. We, who are on this stage, will be in the front row. If bullets come, we will face them first. You will support us and pray.”
He further said, “Whether it is BNP or any other power, even a foreign power, we will resist. We want to establish a new Bangladesh through reforms.”
The meeting was attended by Shafiqur Rahman as chief guest, along with leaders from various political platforms.
Speaking at the same event, NCP southern chief organiser Sarjis Alam alleged irregularities in post election political developments. He said, “BNP came to power through the votes of Awami League. There was an unwritten understanding before the election. That is why many accused involved in attacks on July fighters and the killing of students are now being released on bail.”
He further said, “Those accused in July related killings are now moving freely and threatening victims’ families after being released on bail. If BNP thinks it can eliminate the opposition and establish parliamentary dominance, it will face consequences.”
Sarjis Alam also criticised the repeal of certain reform ordinances, saying, “Among the ordinances, at least 20 were crucial for institutional independence. These have been repealed to regain control over institutions that were previously used for political repression.”
Addressing the families of martyrs and injured participants, he said, “Do not divide yourselves under any banner. If these aspirations are undermined, Bangladesh will suffer. If we uphold them, support us. If we deviate, speak against us.”
