Dhaka: The National Citizen Party (NCP) has called upon political forces, who opposed Bangladesh's independence during the 1971 Liberation War and those accused of collaborating in genocide, to clarify their stances before the nation to strengthen national reconciliation. "Those who stood against the people during the 1971 war must explain their current stance and cooperate in implementing the public's aspirations of the 2024 July Uprising," the NCP said in a statement here today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the NCP urged political entities to distance themselves from slogans that denounce Bangladesh's historical legacy, especially amidst the ongoing movement demanding the banning of the Awami League as a "terrorist organisation". The party also emphasized the importance of party-based trials under the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Act and the declaration of the July Proclamation, while highlighting that certain groups have used slogans against the nation's historical legacy.
The NCP expressed a desire for political transparency, urging those involved to clarify their political positions to foster national understanding and unity. The party also distanced itself from controversial slogans raised during recent anti-fascist demonstrations, stressing that no NCP member raised any slogans that opposed the historical struggles of Bangladesh's people.
In its statement, the NCP affirmed, "We state unequivocally that no member of the NCP raised any party slogans or slogans opposing the struggles and history of the people of this land in the recent movement." The party insisted that any party responsible for objectionable slogans must bear the responsibility for the public uproar they have caused.
Amid ongoing political debates over demands to ban the Awami League and amend the International Crimes (Tribunal) Act, the NCP's statement reiterated its commitment to recognizing Bangladesh's historical struggles in 1947, 1971, and 2024 as essential for political participation in the country.
The party's statement also noted that despite objections from one faction, demonstrators performed the national anthem with determination. The NCP called for far-sighted decisions and responsible behavior from all sides to ensure a prosperous future for Bangladesh, asserting that unity among the people is crucial to overcoming 'Mujibism.'
The NCP urged those who played roles in the 2024 uprising for Bangladesh's democratic transition to adopt a 'pro-Bangladesh' role in building a new nation. The party emphasized that past political divisions must not hinder national unity, stating that any political party or faction with a history of division has the responsibility to clarify their position to the people and pursue national unity.