NCP issues show-cause notice to Chattogram leader over controversial 'mafia' remark
His speech, which also included references to former minister Saifuzzaman Chowdhury, further sparked controversy
The National Citizen Party (NCP) has issued a show-cause notice to its central executive member Zobairul Alam Manik over his recent controversial remarks in Chattogram, where he claimed, "There is no bigger mafia than us."
The comments were made during an Eid reunion organised by the NCP on 9 June in Anwara upazila of Chattogram. Manik, speaking as the chief guest, stated, "We succeeded in the July uprising. No one could provide leadership in the last 16–17 years — this was a political revolution. If anyone tries to become a mafia again using our strategy, we'll remind them: there's no bigger mafia than us."
His speech, which also included references to former minister Saifuzzaman Chowdhury, further sparked controversy. "If anyone wants to be another Zabed (referring to Saifuzzaman), and steal our votes, we will resist like Abu Sayeed, Mugdho, and Wasim Akram — even if we have to become martyrs. We blocked the Shah Amanat Bridge with just 20–25 people on 18 July. If we could lead then, why not now?" he declared.
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Yesterday (10 June), the NCP's Central Joint Office Secretary Saleh Uddin Sifat issued an official notification, stating that Manik's remarks had come to the attention of the party's central disciplinary committee. The letter mentioned that such statements were "inappropriate and unorganisational," damaging the party's image in public.
The notice added, "You are asked to explain in writing within three days why disciplinary action should not be taken against you for violating party discipline and tarnishing its reputation."
Sources in NCP, confirmed the issuance of the notice. However, Zobairul Alam Manik could not be contacted for a comment on the issuance of the notice as he did not answer the calls from The Business Standard.
Zobairul Alam Manik, known for his outspoken style, has not yet issued any public response to the notice. Party insiders say the NCP is currently facing pressure to clarify its position on internal accountability and public conduct, especially amid growing public and media attention.
The incident has sparked debate within political circles about the use of aggressive rhetoric and its impact on party reputation and discipline.
