Dhaka: National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam today stated there is no possibility of establishing a caretaker government before the upcoming referendum. He emphasized that the matter is linked to the July Charter and will be addressed only after the referendum takes place.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Nahid clarified that the consensus commission has already deliberated on the formation of a caretaker government, and the inclusion of a ‘Note of Dissent’ indicates that such a government will only be formed post-referendum. “At this stage, there is no real opportunity for a caretaker government,” Nahid mentioned during a discussion with journalists after meeting Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House, Jamuna.
Discussing the July Charter, Nahid Islam said, “They (Consensus Commission) have invited us to sign, and they will take our concerns into account. Once the consensus commission makes recommendations, the advisory council will decide accordingly.”
Nahid further explained, “We do not view the Charter as merely a paper document. We will consider signing only after receiving assurances regarding its implementation. Since the July Charter signing ceremony occurred without our participation, we have communicated our stance to the government and the consensus commission.”
The NCP has proposed a constitutional order to ensure the Charter’s implementation, to be issued by the Chief Adviser himself. Nahid asserted, “Because the sovereign power of the people, as expressed through the July Uprising, is now vested in Muhammad Yunus – not in the president.”
On the topic of the July massacre trial, Nahid Islam remarked, “A key issue we discussed today was the trial of the July genocide. Several military personnel have faced charges related to crimes against humanity at the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT). We commend this step and appreciate the efforts of both the government and the tribunal in advancing justice.”
Nahid, however, expressed concerns about other related cases nationwide, stating, “Besides ICT, numerous cases have been filed by families of martyrs and victims. Reports indicate that accused individuals are being released on bail and are threatening the families of martyrs and survivors.”
“We have demanded a roadmap for justice and the safety of the affected families. This roadmap should be announced before the election,” Nahid said.
Regarding the upcoming election preparations, he noted that ensuring free and fair elections is ultimately the government’s responsibility. “We expect the government to ensure a level playing field and a neutral environment to guarantee credible elections,” Nahid added.
The NCP delegation, led by Nahid Islam, met Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at approximately 5:00 pm. The delegation included NCP Joint Conveners Samanta Sharmin and Khaled Saifullah and Chief Organiser (North) Sarjis Alam.