NCP Leader Accuses BNP of Rejecting Key Reform Consensus

Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizen Party and opposition chief whip, has accused the Bangladesh Nationalist Party of not accepting key reforms agreed upon by the consensus commission.

Speaking to journalists on Monday after an iftar and discussion event in Mirpur-2, Dhaka, Nahid Islam said the BNP was avoiding clear commitments and attempting to shape reforms according to its own manifesto.

“They are not accepting the core reforms,” he said. “If reforms are implemented based solely on their manifesto, then the consensus commission and all prior discussions will become meaningless.”

He added that the NCP would seek a clearer position from the BNP in the next session, particularly regarding a referendum. “We want to know their stance on a public vote. After that, we will present our final position,” he said.

Nahid further alleged that the BNP is now rejecting the entire concept of a referendum, despite previously agreed reform issues being tied to it. These include proposals such as the formation of an upper house, judicial independence, the role of a deputy speaker, and neutral appointments in constitutional institutions.

Referring to the aftermath of the 1990 Mass Uprising in Bangladesh, he warned that similar political behavior by the BNP in the past had led to instability. “After the 1990 uprising, BNP did not implement the agreed framework. As a result, parliamentary politics could not sustain itself for long, and the country moved toward authoritarianism,” he said, adding that the party must decide whether to learn from history or repeat it.

Allegations of Corruption and Criticism of Policies

At the same event, NCP Chief Coordinator Nasir Uddin Patwary alleged that corruption has already begun in the distribution of family cards.

He also criticized stipends for religious leaders, saying structural reforms are needed instead of what he described as “populist tactics.” He took aim at political figures, referencing both Sheikh Hasina and Tarique Rahman, urging an end to what he called “political theatrics” and calling for fundamental changes to ensure public welfare.

Patwary also wished a speedy recovery to BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas.

Other Remarks

The event was chaired by Ariful Islam Adib and moderated by Sardar Amirul Islam Sagar. Speakers included Monira Sharmin and Farhad Sohel.

Monira Sharmin criticized the current government, questioning the clarity of leadership and decision-making authority, particularly regarding constitutional interpretation.

In his closing remarks, Adib said that NCP leaders and activists in Dhaka North are prepared to continue their struggle for political change and the implementation of the “July Charter.”