Prominent July uprising leader Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan has formally joined the National Citizen Party (NCP) but announced he will not contest the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Elections, prioritising the success of his allies instead.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday evening at the party’s temporary Banglamotor office, Asif Mahmud emphasised the importance of unity during Bangladesh’s transitional period.
“If I can send more of my comrades to Parliament than go there alone, that will be my greatest achievement,” he said, pledging to actively work for the victory of NCP candidates and advocate for a “Yes” vote in the upcoming referendum.
NCP leader Nahid Islam welcomed Asif Mahmud, highlighting his role as a frontline organiser during the July mass uprising and his leadership in the “March to Dhaka” campaign.
Nahid noted that Asif Mahmud had previously served in two key ministries of the interim government and has long been active in student-led movements against fascism.
As part of his new role, Asif Mahmud has been appointed NCP spokesperson and head of the party’s election management committee, tasked with overseeing election strategy and organisational efforts.
He has also been included in the party’s policymaking council, pending formal approval at the next general meeting.
Nasiruddin Patwary, NCP chief coordinator, praised Asif Mahmud’s decision, describing it as historic for the party and underlining the NCP’s mission to combat corruption, injustice, extortion, and foreign influence.
Patwary also confirmed that 47 NCP candidates have submitted nomination papers nationwide, marking the launch of the party’s new political campaign.
Patwary further announced his own candidacy from Dhaka-8, aiming to continue the unfinished struggle of the late Shaheed Osman Hadi, while Asif Mahmud will focus on election management and strengthening NCP’s parliamentary representation.
This move highlights NCP’s strategic approach to unify political forces and maximize representation in the upcoming polls, rather than pursuing individual candidacies.
