BNP’s candidate list is 'disappointing, full of godfathers': Patwary

Calls on young, excluded Chhatra Dal and Jubo Dal members to join NCP, National Citizen Party (NCP) Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary stated today that the candidate list announced by BNP for the upcoming national election is "disappointing" and that "most of them are godfathers".

"We had anticipated that following the mass uprising, BNP would select some commendable candidates. However, it appears they have strategically marginalized the young members of Chhatra Dal and Jubo Dal. We invite those young leaders to join our party," he remarked during a press briefing at the party office in Dhaka's Banglamotor this evening.

Patwary mentioned, "NCP has learned that BNP's acting chairman Tarique Rahman may return to the country shortly. We wish to convene and address issues through dialogue."

He praised BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia for securing nominations in three constituencies, referring to her as "a symbol of democracy".

"When we talk about democracy within the BNP, we refer to her. Without the mass uprising, she might not have had the chance to run for office," he urged, calling for the party to acknowledge the July Uprising.

He declared, "From today, on behalf of NCP, we announce a war against terrorism, extortion, and corruption. They will either endure, or we will -- but we will fight."

Patwary also expressed support for Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, stating, "Dr. Yunus is facing intimidation -- at times from BNP, at times from Jamaat. I want to assure the chief adviser: If you are scared, we are here. We fear no one -- not BNP, not Jamaat."

Criticizing the major political parties, Patwary accused them of trying to "erase the identity of smaller parties" by offering them one or two constituencies.

"Every party should have the right to contest under its own symbol," he asserted. "If any large party sells election symbols to smaller ones, we urge voters not to support them."

Patwary insisted that the "July Charter Implementation Order" must be issued by Chief Adviser Yunus.