We proposed forming national government on Aug 5, says NCP’s Nahid

The NCP leader claims, pointing at the BNP, that reform was ignored in favour of power-sharing

National Citizen Party (NCP) Convenor Nahid Islam has said the proposal to form a national government was turned down by those he accused of only making minor concessions in sharing power, referring to the BNP.

Speaking at a street rally at Khulna Road intersection in Satkhira on Saturday afternoon, he referred to the post-Sheikh Hasina government situation.

“On the 5th of August, we opened the door to build a national government and rebuild the country, rising above all divisions,” he said.

“But they refused to back our proposal.”

According to Nahid, the party he pointed to demanded elections within three to six months but offered no support for national reform.

He said: “They thought they could lure the Uprising’s force with a few seats and promises of sharing power.

“But those who have survived death cannot be bought -- no political party in this country has that power.”

He added that the NCP still welcomes cooperation, but only for rebuilding the country -- not seat deals.

“Our door remains open for reform, not electoral negotiations. If it shuts down this time, the people will not forgive you.”

Turning to extortion, the NCP leader said one political party has yet to change. “Their extortion continues to cause public suffering.”

He also said the NCP would keep working toward a society free from discrimination.

“We called for a new Constitution. After the July Uprising, we demanded justice, reform, and a fresh constitutional framework.

“But one party wants to preserve the old order. Those clinging to old politics won’t find it easy this time.”

Before the rally, the NCP leaders met families of those killed and injured in the student-led mass uprising at Shaheed Asif Chattar.