NCP's door is open to BNP, Jamaat rebels: Nasiruddin Patwary

Ahead of announcing its preliminary list of candidates, the National Citizen Party (NCP) has said that it is prepared to nominate rebel contenders from both the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami who support political reform and retain strong grassroots connections.

Speaking at a press briefing at the party's temporary office in the capital's Banglamotor this morning (10 December), NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary said, "In the first phase, we are nominating 125 candidates.

"In the second phase, we will nominate those from the BNP who are rebels but are in favour of reforms. We will also nominate the rebels from Jamaat."

He added that the party remains open to individuals who may have been sidelined within their own parties due to financial influence but still enjoy public credibility.

"Those who have lost to money but have a connection with the people and want to represent them in parliament, NCP's doors are open for them," he said.

Responding to a question on how many rebel candidates from other parties have contacted the NCP, Patwary said, "I cannot give a number at this moment. But many are reaching out. Don't you see the flames on the ground have subsided? That means communication has begun."

Asked whether student advisers will also be nominated as NCP candidates, he said, "They have not resigned yet. Once they resign, only then can this question be answered."

Member Secretary Akhtar Hossen is announcing the party's candidate list.