NCP condemns smear campaign targeting female leader following leaked audio call

The National Citizen Party (NCP) has strongly condemned a smear campaign targeting its Joint Convenor Dr Tajnuva Jabeen, after a leaked audio call circulated on social media platforms. 

In a statement issued today (19 June), the party alleged that certain online platforms and members of a "fallen fascist party" are spreading "vile, sexually abusive and false propaganda" against her.

"This is not an isolated incident," the statement read. "In the past, female leaders of the NCP have been subjected to similar derogatory attacks. Such campaigns are not only expressions of misogyny and abuse but are also deliberate attempts to undermine women's political agency and shrink their space in public life."

The party further noted that since the July uprising, women have reclaimed their political authority after more than a decade.

"Any form of degrading or repressive behaviour against them is a direct rejection of the fundamental spirit and ideals of the July uprising."

The NCP expressed concern that some members of anti-fascist political groups have either directly or indirectly participated in the character-assassination campaign against Dr Jabeen. The party also accused certain online media outlets and media personalities of demonstrating "irresponsibility and unprofessionalism" in this regard.

"One mainstream daily even published a suggestive photo card linking Dr Jabeen to the controversy, further exposing her to harm and inciting sexually abusive commentary against her," the statement said.

The NCP stressed its role in advancing women's participation in politics in the aftermath of the mass uprising and alleges that supporters of the old political establishment are actively trying to obstruct the rise of women in leadership roles within the party.

"The National Citizens' Party (NCP) vehemently condemns and protests against this form of harassment and sexually abusive campaign," the statement said. 

"If such attacks persist, the NCP will take legal action against both online and offline perpetrators and their accomplices, and will resist them with full force," it added.