Nahid alleges obstruction in political activities, calls for respect to martyr families
The ‘July Charter’ will give the mass uprising a constitutional foundation, he says
Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), today (20 July) alleged that his party is facing mounting challenges in carrying out political activities across the country.
"We are encountering serious difficulties. Everyone witnessed what happened in Gopalganj.We are facing obstructions from various quarters in multiple ways," he told reporters at Motel Saikat on Station Road in Chattogram, following a meeting with families of the July martyrs.
During the meeting, family members voiced grievances over financial hardship, insecurity, and what they described as disrespect and neglect by party advisers.
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"We are travelling across the country, meeting the families of those who laid down their lives," Nahid continued.
"Most of them share the same concerns. In some places, the situation is marginally better, with limited support being offered. However, many of the government's initiatives are failing to reach the grassroots. Elements loyal to former authoritarian regimes still exist within the administration, which is why the martyr families are not receiving the recognition they rightfully deserve. We are receiving similar complaints from different regions."
Addressing the families directly, Nahid emphasised, "We have not come to you as a political party. We stood together during the uprising, and you are here today at our invitation. From that standpoint, we consider all of you part of one extended family—regardless of political affiliation. The martyrs did not belong to any party; they sacrificed their lives for the country. We were unaware of any disrespect shown by advisers, but we strongly condemn it and will raise our voices in protest."
He added that the upcoming July Charter would serve to give the mass uprising a constitutional foundation. "We are establishing a 'Mass Uprising Cell' within the party and engaging in discussions around the July Charter. On 3 August, we will hold a major programme. The government, too, has stated its intention to declare the July Declaration and Charter by 5 August. If that happens, it will provide the July uprising with a constitutional basis."
Following the meeting, NCP leaders departed for Rangamati to join a scheduled march. Later in the day, they are expected to hold a street rally in Chattogram city.
