Dhaka: National Citizen Party (NCP) Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwari today expressed optimism about the party obtaining registration from the Election Commission, along with its desired electoral symbol, ‘Shapla’. He shared this sentiment while speaking to journalists after a meeting with the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) at the Nirbachan Bhaban in Agargaon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Nasiruddin discussed several key issues with the CEC, including party registration, electoral symbols, and voting rights for expatriates. He conveyed that the Election Commission has made a positive decision regarding NCP’s registration. Nasiruddin emphasized that the NCP is resolute in its demand for the Shapla symbol, with specific preferences for either a white or red Shapla, stating they would not deviate from these options.
Addressing rumors, Patwari dismissed claims that the NCP does not want elections, labeling them as propaganda. He asserted that the NCP is keen on a swift and fair election, having been previously denied the right to vote. He also commented on the necessity for acceptance of the July Charter and changes in the Legislative Assembly, warning that without these, only a new face would replace Sheikh Hasina.
On the evolving political landscape, Nasiruddin noted the formation of three political blocs, including an Islamic bloc, one under BNP’s leadership, and a third led by the NCP. He clarified that the NCP would not align with the BNP-Jamaat bloc. He further mentioned that the NCP is in talks with youth activists who have been part of movements over the past 15 years, with plans for collaboration and forming a broader youth alliance.
Nasiruddin expressed hope that the NCP would secure 150 seats in the upcoming election and indicated that the party would silently endorse capable candidates from BNP and Jamaat activists involved in the mass uprising. Regarding the proportional representation system, he stated a preference for its implementation in the upper house rather than the lower house.
NCP joint convener Khaled Saifullah and joint member secretary Zahirul Islam Musa were also present at the meeting with the CEC.