Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam warned that the return of loan defaulters to political power would lead to renewed plundering of public resources.
He made the remarks on Thursday while speaking as a special guest at a public rally organised by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami for Dhaka-15 constituency.
He criticised BNP for nominating individuals with questionable financial records while simultaneously promising welfare schemes to the public.
The NCP leader stressed that the fight against fascism and extortion must continue, noting that the movement’s original objectives have yet to be fully realized.
“We took to the streets with certain goals, but those goals have not been fully achieved. By ensuring the victory of the ‘Yes’ vote in the referendum, we will turn that movement into a celebration of victory,” he added.
Criticising BNP’s family card scheme, Nahid questioned its transparency and effectiveness.
“BNP is talking about family cards worth Tk2,000 to Tk3,000. But who will actually receive these cards? Will those who truly need them get them, or will people have to pay a bribe of Tk1,000 to obtain a Tk2,000 card?” he asked.
He also highlighted a contradiction in BNP’s approach, pointing out that while the party promises welfare cards, it is also nominating loan defaulters.
“Those who are being nominated will return to power and engage in looting again. The party has given nominations to people who will plunder public money,” he said.
Addressing BNP’s promise of providing flats to slum dwellers, Nahid argued that such initiatives signal eviction rather than genuine rehabilitation.
“Slum dwellers do not want flats. They want a safe and secure life, which is possible even in slums. In the past, those who promised flats eventually moved to evict residents after the elections. People now understand these false assurances,” he said.
Emphasising the need for a fair election, the NCP convenor stressed that no alternative plan could replace transparency and impartiality.
“The election must be free and fair. The Election Commission has to remain transparent. No party can be given special privileges. We want to remind the Election Commission that we are on the ground. No wrongdoing will be tolerated,” he added.
Nahid concluded by framing the upcoming election as both a political contest and a referendum for justice.
“We will all vote ‘Yes’ in the referendum. We will say no to discrimination, extortion, injustice, oppression and hegemony. That is why we must vote ‘Yes’ in the referendum,” he said.
SH
