National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam on Sunday claimed that the electoral alliance with Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami is strategic not ideological.
Speaking at an emergency press conference at the NCP's temporary office in the capital's Banglamotor, Nahid said the decision to join the eight-party alliance was taken very recently as part of efforts to navigate the upcoming election and work collectively against authoritarianism, corruption, and to ensure reforms and justice.
He said the killing of Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi demonstrated that those involved in violence during the July Uprising remain active and are attempting to target the uprising leaders, as well as those injured and families of those killed.
"NCP had initially planned to contest the election independently, with preparations underway for all 300 parliamentary seats. Later, we formed an alliance with three parties. But Hadi's murder forced us to reconsider and move towards a broader unity," he said.
Responding to journalists' questions, Nahid said the decision was taken after discussions within the executive body and based on the opinion of the majority.
"Whether someone remains in the party or not is now a purely personal decision. NCP leaders across the country remain united," he added.
The NCP chief also said that once the candidate list is finalised, their candidates will collect nomination papers tomorrow based on mutual understanding.
He further said that the party is not reaching compromises based on who is contesting independently; instead, selections will be made based on work and performance.
