Another battle awaits, we are preparing for it: Nahid
He says dynasty, mafia, godfather rule were intertwined in Bangladesh
The National Citizen Party (NCP) has said the party is ready for a renewed political struggle ahead of the upcoming national elections, as its leaders intensified their "July march to build the nation" campaign with rallies in Munshiganj and Narayanganj, and a new phase set to begin today in Cox's Bazar.
"We know another battle awaits us, and we are preparing for it," NCP Convenor Nahid Islam told supporters at a street rally in Munshiganj town today (18 July). "Our struggle won't be limited to one opponent. We must stand against many."
Addressing local concerns, Nahid condemned unchecked river erosion, illegal sand extraction, extortion, and criminal activity in the district.
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He also raised the issue of voting rights for expatriates from Munshiganj. "Tell your family members overseas to become aware and vocal. They are part of Bangladesh, and we will ensure their right to vote."
At the same rally, the party's Chief Organiser (southern region), Hasnat Abdullah, called for unity in the face of what he termed "national and international conspiracies".
Sarjis Alam, chief organiser (northern region), warned that Bangladesh had yet to be freed from authoritarian rule and urged all forces to unite against fascism.
Dynasty, mafia, godfather ruled N'ganj
Later in the afternoon, NCP leaders reached Narayanganj, where they accused the Awami League regime of turning the city into a hub of corruption and criminal control.
"For years, a handful of families controlled this city – engaging in extortion, land grabbing, abductions, and violence to maintain their dominance," Nahid told the rally.
"The uprising last July-August showed that the current system must change. We refuse to play by the rules of this corrupt game any longer," he added. "The game is still being played in Narayanganj, but it's time to prepare for another mass uprising to stop it."
Tensions flared early Friday when unknown individuals set fire to an archway the NCP had erected on College Road ahead of the rally. The blaze occurred around 3:30am. Local NCP leaders blamed members of the banned Chhatra League.
"The attackers fled when a night guard intervened. We've reported the incident to police and demand a fair investigation," said Ahmedur Rahman Tonu, a central leader of the NCP.
Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime and Operations) Tarek Al Mehdi confirmed the incident and said an investigation was under way.
Speaking about the attack, Nahid said, "Last night's arson was meant to intimidate us and stop the rally. But Narayanganj has a legacy of resistance. People here shed blood during the July movement. That resistance helped Dhaka rise. Narayanganj's name will be written in golden letters in the history of our struggle."
Cox's Bazar leg of July march begins today
Today, the NCP is launching a regional leg of its nationwide campaign in Cox's Bazar, marching through five districts in the Chattogram region.
"All preparations have been completed to receive our central leaders," said SM Suja Uddin, joint member secretary of the party's central committee. The march will begin at 10am from the central bus terminal and proceed to Shaheed Daulat Ground, where a rally is scheduled.
"People from unions and upazilas across the district will gather at the terminal to join the march," Suja Uddin added. "We expect a massive turnout."
Calling Cox's Bazar a politically aware and globally significant city, Suja Uddin also sought cooperation from authorities. "We've already held discussions with the Superintendent of Police and other law enforcement officials. We hope the programme will remain peaceful."
