Dhaka: Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman today announced that the National Citizen Party (NCP) and the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) have joined its electoral alliance, expanding the coalition to 10 political parties. Dr. Shafiqur Rahman made this announcement during a press conference held at the National Press Club in the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Shafiqur Rahman stated that the alliance initially comprised eight parties but has now grown with the inclusion of the NCP and the LDP, led by Colonel (retd) Oli Ahmed. He mentioned that the alliance partners have reached seat-sharing arrangements in several constituencies through discussions and consultations. Dr Shafiqur also highlighted that although some other parties have shown interest in joining the alliance, it is not feasible to include them at this moment.
Following the post-uprising political developments, Jamaat-e-Islami had earlier formed an electoral understanding with six parties-Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Khelafat Majlis, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon, Bangladesh Nezame Islam Party, and Jatiya Ganotantrik Party (JAGPA)-to field single candidates in all constituencies. Subsequently, the Bangladesh Development Party joined the platform, raising the number to eight. With the inclusion of NCP and LDP, the total number of parties in the Jamaat-led alliance has now increased to 10.
Senior leaders from several alliance partners were present at the press conference, including Colonel (retd) Oli Ahmed Bir Bikram, Islami Andolan Bangladesh presidium member Ashraf Ali Akon, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis Secretary General Ahmad Abdul Quader, and JAGPA Vice President Rashed Pradhan. However, no representative from the NCP attended the event. In response to questions, Dr Shafiqur Rahman mentioned that the NCP would hold a separate press conference to explain its decision and outline its position regarding the alliance.