BNP, Jamaat reaping benefits of uprising, but avoiding responsibility: Nahid

Although the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami have reaped the political benefits from the July Uprising, and are poised to do so again in the upcoming polls, they are unwilling to take responsibility for it, National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam said today (1 December).

"Whenever the families of those killed or injured in the uprising seek help from them, they are directed to us, the NCP," he said while speaking at his office in the capital's Banglamotor during a prayer event marking the release of Bangladeshi expatriates imprisoned in the United Arab Emirates.

He said that while one political party is "playing the Liberation War card" and another is "playing the religion card" ahead of the election, such tactics reflect the old politics of division promoted by the Awami League.

"But the mass uprising rose above these divisions," he added.

Nahid claimed that attempts are being made to create confusion surrounding the election. "One party is openly opposing reforms, while another is covertly doing the same. As a result, no consensus could be reached on reforms," he said.

"This election is not just about changing a government, it is about changing the country. The vote is either for reforms or against them. Anyone except the fallen autocrat should be in favour of the 'No Vote' option," he added.

NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary said the country is facing a political crisis, pointing to statements from senior political leaders who claim the state lacks security.

"We must clarify who is undermining security, internal forces or external ones," he said.

Referring to comments from the law ministry that BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman is free to return to Bangladesh, he said the authorities must explain the security concerns surrounding the matter.

"Khaleda Zia has shown us how to walk the path of democracy. We are the well-wishers of BNP," Nasiruddin said.

On the upcoming election, he reiterated the party's stance, saying, "We want the election to be based on support for or opposition to reforms. But one group is trying to portray it as a battle between supporters and opponents of Islam."

He added, "We call on them to abandon this misguided politics. NCP does not engage in religious divisiveness."

He urged BNP and Jamaat to adopt a consistent position regarding the Jatiyo Party. "The Awami League is as responsible for Khaleda Zia's current condition as the Jatiyo Party," he said.