Rumors had been swirling about National Citizen Party (NCP) leaders holding secret meetings with former US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas in Cox’s Bazar. Before those speculations could fully subside, a significant meeting has now taken place between NCP leaders and current Chargé d’Affaires Tracey Ann Jacobson.
NCP’s Joint Member Secretary Salauddin Sifat has confirmed the meeting between the party’s top leaders and the US Ambassador.
The meeting was held at the US Ambassador’s residence in Gulshan-2 on Monday from 5pm to 6pm. Tracey Ann Jacobson and Political Counselor Eric Gillan were present from the US Embassy. Representing the NCP were the party’s Convener Nahid Islam, Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, Senior Joint Member Secretary Dr Tasnim Jara, and Joint Member Secretary & Diplomatic Representative Alauddin Mohammad.
According to the source, discussions during the meeting centered on Bangladesh’s current political situation, the upcoming national elections, democratic processes, and international cooperation. The NCP leaders emphasised the importance of political stability and an inclusive election in the country.
Ambassador Jacobson, on the other hand, reaffirmed the US’s interest in and support for Bangladesh’s democratic progress. She also inquired about the NCP’s plans regarding the upcoming elections.
Prior to this, intense speculation arose in political circles over alleged secret talks between NCP leaders and Peter Haas in Cox’s Bazar. On August 5, coinciding with the anniversary of the July uprising, five top NCP leaders – Nasiruddin Patwari, Dr Tasnim Jara, Khaled Saifullah, Sarjis Alam, and Hasanat Abdullah – made an unexpected trip to Cox’s Bazar.
Claims circulated on social media and several TV channels that they had met with Peter Haas at the Sea Pearl Resort that day. However, NCP leaders outright denied these allegations.
This “unannounced visit” has reportedly caused discontent within the party. A show-cause notice was issued against the five leaders, demanding a written explanation from them.