The National Citizen Party (NCP) has strongly condemned the recent assassination attempt on Sharif Osman Hadi, a prospective independent candidate for Dhaka-8 and spokesperson for Inquilab Mancha, in the capital’s Bijoynagar area.
The daylight attack is being described by the NCP as not only an assault on a political candidate but also a direct attack on the democratic process, which was reinstated through the people’s uprising.
In a statement issued Friday, the NCP expressed grave concern over the deteriorating law and order situation and the increasing instability in the electoral environment.
The party also criticised the government’s failure to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of Osman Hadi, despite his public disclosure of receiving threats prior to the attack.
The NCP claimed that the incident is a clear example of negligence and incompetence on the part of the authorities, which is unacceptable.
“The attack is a stark reminder of the failure to provide security for candidates and the public, especially after repeated incidents of violence and threats,” read the statement.
“This failure is a disgrace to the government and law enforcement agencies, which have not acted to protect the citizens’ rights to free and fair elections.”
The NCP also raised concerns about the historical role of the Awami League, which it claims has been linked to violence and the establishment of armed factions to destabilise the country.
The party warned that if the government does not take immediate and decisive action against these forces, the country could face further political violence and instability.
“We urge all democratic forces, civil society, and citizens to stand against the forces of terror and violence that are attempting to derail our democratic journey. The time has come to identify the real criminals and bring them to justice,” the statement read.
The NCP has called for an immediate investigation into the assassination attempt, the identification of the attackers, and the swift arrest of those responsible.
The party also demanded the government launch a thorough crackdown on the Awami League’s alleged terrorist network and ensure the safety of all election candidates and citizens.
“We are committed to ensuring that the democratic process continues, despite the threats we face. The NCP stands with the people in safeguarding peace, security, and the democratic future of Bangladesh,” the NCP concluded.
