Nasiruddin Patwary, chief coordinator of the National Citizen Party (NCP), on Monday submitted his nomination papers for the Dhaka-8 (Ramna-Motijheel) parliamentary seat as a candidate of the 10-party Jamaat-led alliance.
Initially, Nasiruddin had planned to contest from Dhaka-18 and had collected nomination papers for that constituency, completing preparations for his campaign.
Speaking to reporters after filing his papers at the Dhaka Divisional Commissioner’s office, he explained the change in constituency.
“I had prepared for Dhaka-18, but our 10-party alliance is a strategic coalition. For broader political goals and as part of a coordinated alliance decision, I have now chosen to contest from Dhaka-8,” he said.
He clarified that the alliance is a tactical one, not ideological, aimed at achieving specific objectives.
After submitting his nomination, Nasiruddin expressed his determination to carry forward the legacy of Shaheed Osman Hadi. “I have come here ready to sacrifice myself. Our goals are clear, protect the people, resist Indian dominance, and eliminate corruption from the country.”
He also expressed optimism that the alliance will succeed in forming the next government.
He appealed emotionally to voters, urging them to continue the struggle for Bangladesh’s progress, even if he falls in the process.
The contest in Dhaka-8 has become highly competitive. The constituency will see BNP heavyweight and standing committee member Mirza Abbas as a contender. Additionally, Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Mancha, had announced his independent candidacy but was fatally attacked on 12 December in Bijoynagar.
Hadi was shot while traveling in a rickshaw, treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and Evercare Hospital, and later flown to Singapore, where he succumbed to his injuries on 18 December.
Nasiruddin will contest the election under the ‘Shapla Kali’ symbol, with support from Jamaat-e-Islami and other allied parties in the coalition.
