National Citizen Party (NCP) Senior Joint Convener Ariful Islam Adib has said that the NCP has drawn the chief adviser’s attention to take more effective measures regarding the suspension of the Jatiya Party’s organisational activities.
He stated, “The organisational activities of the Awami League have been suspended at the state level. Similarly, we observe that Jatiya Party has openly taken a stance in favour of a banned organisation. In the past, they attempted to legitimise an illegal parliament. Considering all these factors, their organisational activities should be suspended.”
He provided this information to the media after a meeting between a four-member delegation of the NCP and the chief adviser on Sunday evening.
Ariful Islam noted, “The last three elections were held illegally. The Jatiya Party directly participated in those elections and acted as an accomplice to the fascist government. During the election campaigns, they campaigned like Awami League-nominated candidates. This indicates that there is no difference between Jatiya Party and the Awami League.”
He added, “Even one year after the mass uprising, the rehabilitation, treatment, and security of the martyrs and the injured have not been ensured. Recently, when family members of martyrs took to the streets with their demands, the police baton-charged them, leaving several injured. The government has been urged to ensure rehabilitation and security.”
Regarding expatriates, Ariful Islam said, “Expatriates participated in the July mass uprising. Several comrades have been detained in the United Arab Emirates. Twenty-five individuals are still facing legal complications. The government should take initiatives to secure their release.”
He further stated, “According to the report of the Enforced Disappearance Commission, there are allegations against some members of state institutions. The government should take appropriate measures. In the history of Bangladesh’s elections, state institutions have exerted influence, and attempts were made to influence various parties even before the 2024 election.”
Ariful Islam emphasised, “The upcoming election should be held through a constituent assembly election to enable a permanent solution to the long-term political crisis. Additionally, the chief Adviser’s role is crucial in ensuring the capability and neutrality of the Election Commission.”
He said, “I urge the adviser to take into account the law and order situation across the country. We have also seen that the government has taken initiatives for student union elections in multiple universities simultaneously across Bangladesh. Effective steps should be taken to ensure these are held fairly and smoothly, without any obstacles.”
Ariful Islam informed that the NCP has requested “ensuring votes for female candidates in women’s seats and guaranteeing the opportunity for direct voting in 100 seats. Additionally, a demand has been made to arrange for young people who turn 18 after October 31 to participate in the election scheduled for February.”
He stated, “Some members of the old establishment are still trying to influence the election. The recent incident of publicly assaulting the head of a political party that participated in the mass uprising is proof of this. It is essential to bring these matters to the government’s attention.”
