Highlights
- National Citizen Party (NCP) has joined an alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami.
- The move has created division among NCP leaders and activists.
- Former information adviser Mahfuz Alam has clearly stated he will not join the NCP–Jamaat alliance.
- He says maintaining his long-standing political principles is more important than contesting elections.
Background of the Alliance
The National Citizen Party (NCP) has recently joined an eight-party political alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami. This decision has caused mixed reactions within the party, with leaders and activists divided over the move.
Amid this situation, public curiosity grew over whether Mahfuz Alam, a frontline leader of the July mass uprising and former information adviser of the interim government, would participate in the upcoming election under this alliance.
Mahfuz Alam Speaks on Facebook
On Sunday, Mahfuz Alam clarified his position through a Facebook status. Below are his statements, presented clearly for readers, with original quotes kept intact and English translations added.
His Political Position Explained
Role with NCP and Citizen Committee:
Mahfuz Alam said:
“My political position:
The Citizen Committee and NCP were formed under the frontline leadership of July. Since many of my July comrades are part of these two organizations, I have supported them over the past one and a half years with advice, guidance, and policy-level cooperation whenever asked.”
Vision for Political Change
He further stated:
“2. My position is clear. I have spoken about a new political and economic framework, a cultural struggle against fascism, resisting social fascism, reconciliation, and building a compassionate society. I tried my best to establish NCP as an independent ‘big July umbrella,’ but for various reasons, that was not possible.”
Read More: NCP and LDP in alliance with Jamaat
Decision to Stay Out of the Alliance
On joining the alliance, he said:
“3. My respect, affection, and friendship for my July comrades will not disappear. However, I am not joining NCP. It is not true that I was not offered a proposal by the Jamaat–NCP alliance. But preserving my long-standing position is more important to me than becoming a candidate of the Jamaat–NCP alliance in a Dhaka constituency.”
Call for Independent Position
He also added:
“4. At this point in history, Bangladesh is in a cold war. In this phase, it is best not to take sides and instead remain firm in one’s principles. The possibility of an alternative young/July force has not ended. I will continue my political, cultural, and intellectual efforts. If you care to join me, you are most welcome.”
Source: Kalbela
