NCP Alliance Talks Stall Over UP Bangladesh Inclusion Dispute; 'Third Bloc' Future Uncertain

A significant internal rift within the National Convention Party (NCP) over the inclusion of United People's (UP) Bangladesh has stalled discussions for forming a major new political alliance, intended to operate as a "third bloc" outside the traditional BNP-Jamaat sphere ahead of the national election.

Proposed Alliance: The coalition, under the prospective leadership of the NCP, was initially planned to include the Amar Bangladesh (AB) Party, UP Bangladesh, and the Rastro Songskar Andolon. The Ganadhikar Parishad and Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (Rab) were also part of earlier discussions.

NCP Internal Opposition: Despite NCP Chief Coordinator Nasir Uddin Patwary having announced the imminent formation of the alliance, an executive council meeting this week revealed deep internal divisions. While there is broad support for forming a "third bloc," several senior leaders strongly objected to partnering with UP Bangladesh, preventing the party from committing to a specific platform.

The Sticking Point (UP Bangladesh): The proposed inclusion of UP Bangladesh is the main reason for the deadlock. Leaders within the NCP's student wing publicly expressed severe disapproval, labeling the move "suicidal" and warning against falling into the "trap of pro-Maududi proxies," indicating a deep ideological conflict regarding the potential partner.

Allies Confirm Stall: o Rastro Songskar Andolon's Hasnat Kayum confirmed the alliance plan is "stuck" due to internal NCP opposition, specifically targeting UP Bangladesh, which has prevented the proposal from being formally passed in NCP’s internal meetings. o UP Bangladesh Convenor Ali Ahsan Zunayad stated the alliance formation process had been streamlined and initially approved by NCP's top leadership, but had "slowed down" due to unspecified reasons. Uncertainty from Other Potential Partners: o Ganadhikar Parishad President Nurul Haque Nur ruled out joining the NCP alliance at this stage, confirming his party is prioritizing ongoing seat-sharing talks with the BNP and may contest alone if those talks fail. o AB Party General Secretary Barrister Fuad noted that discussions are ongoing but nothing has been finalized, confirming the general uncertainty.

The Stakes: The alliance was positioned to contest all 300 seats, upholding the aspirations of the recent mass uprising, and standing against corruption and "religious fascism." The internal exchange among youth leaders highlights the fear that the compromise over UP Bangladesh risks undermining the party's principles and pushing it back into "old politics."