No alliance with BNP or Jamaat, NCP to join forces with July Uprising allies: Patwary

The National Citizen Party (NCP) will not form any alliance with the BNP or Jamaat for the upcoming national election, the party's Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary said today (22 September). 

"We will form an alliance with those who were with us during the July Uprising," he told reporters at the Election Commission (EC) headquarters after a meeting with the chief election commissioner. 

He also said the party can secure 150 seats in the upcoming election. 

"For now, the political scenario seems to be shaping into three blocks: one has already become an Islamic block, another is forming under BNP's leadership, and the third is forming under our leadership," the NCP leader said.

"Over the past 15 years, many young people have been active in movements, and many have formed parties. A lot of them have now agreed to join under the NCP banner. Our decision is that we will work together. The process of how this will happen is still being discussed. But the decision has been made that all the banners from the past 15 years will be united. A larger youth alliance is coming together."

In response to a question, Pathway said, "We had said we would try to win seats by fielding candidates in 300 constituencies. But in reality, we see that we are in a position to win in about 150 constituencies. Nevertheless, we will field candidates in all 300 seats and fight for victory there." 

Merger with Gono Odhikar Parishad

When asked whether the Gono Odhikar Parishad is merging with NCP, Patwary said, "Yes."

"Discussions are ongoing for the NCP and Gono Odhikar Parishad to unite as one party. Talks are underway. We have agreed in principle. The process will follow political procedures. Ideological issues have been clarified. It is not about a few seats; it is an ideological struggle."

When asked what symbol will be used if Gono Odhikar Parishad merges with NCP, Patwary said, "The party name will remain NCP, and NCP's symbol will be used. 

"Many more parties will come under NCP. We are creating a large-scale party. As a result, many parties with different views and banners will come under the NCP banner, Insha'Allah."

Responding to a question, the NCP leader reiterated his earlier statement that BNP would not secure more than 50-100 seats. "You can now see the real picture and the direction in which they are heading," he said. 

"We will collectively work to ensure that none from the Awami League or the Jatiyo Party can win seats in the parliament," he added.

"We want to make it clear to the countrymen that the next parliament will not have anyone from the Awami League or the Jatiyo Party."

Patwary urges BNP, Jamaat to agree on legal basis, implementation of July Charter

Patwary has alleged that the country cannot move toward elections due to the "hypocrisy" of the BNP and Jamaat. He urged the two parties to quickly agree on the legal basis and implementation process of the July Charter and participate in the elections.

"I would tell these two parties to sign the July Charter without delay. Bring it through an executional legal mechanism and participate promptly in the election process to relieve the people of their suffering."

He added, "I want to tell the people that the NCP seeks a rapid democratic transition. But if the democratic transition does not happen properly, merely casting some votes will not solve all problems. 

"If the institutions are not properly fixed, the July Charter is not implemented, and no changes are made within the legislative framework, then only someone else will sit in Sheikh Hasina's place. To prevent this, the parties should come together for discussions and sign the charter. Then an order can be issued within 10-15 days. The elections can then take place under that order."

NCP meets CEC, presses for 'Shapla' election symbol

NCP's registration with EC

Patwari also expressed optimism regarding NCP's registration with the EC.

"The registration process is moving in a positive direction, and some good news is coming," he said.

The NCP chief coordinator also insisted that the party's election symbol must be 'Shapla' (water lily). 

"There is no alternative to Shapla as our election symbol. It can be white or red. We will not compromise on Shapla," he also said.