Another 1/11-style plot under way, says NCP leader Nahid

National Citizen Party (NCP) Convenor Nahid Islam has alleged that a new attempt is under way to orchestrate a political crisis similar to the military-backed caretaker takeover of Jan 1, 2007 to disrupt Bangladesh’s democratic transition.

He also claimed that plans to destabilise the country “are being drawn up in Delhi”.

Nahid said this on Friday amid a political turmoil, which was compounded by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, who on Thursday said he was “contemplating stepping down”.

In a Facebook post on Friday, Nahid wrote: “Our goal is to free Bangladesh’s politics from all forms of hegemony and ensure it operates independently and sovereignly. Time and again, Bangladesh has been divided, national unity has been destroyed — all with the aim of keeping the country weak.”

He alleged, “Following the ban on the Awami League, fresh designs are being laid out from Delhi to create instability and divide the nation once again.

“The objective is to obstruct the democratic transformation and orchestrate another 1/11.”

Calling for unity against fascism and domination, Nahid said: “Patriotic, Bangladesh-minded and devout students and people must stand united for sovereignty, reform, and the July Uprising.”

“Patriotic army officers and soldiers must also be ready to defend sovereignty and protect Bangladesh,” he added.

The same post was shared on the official Facebook page of the NCP, where Nahid outlined the party’s position on several issues.

Referring to Yunus, Nahid, a student leader who led the July movement that toppled the Awami League government in August, said: “Dr Yunus must fulfil the promises made to the people on reform, justice and voting rights.

“He must resolve all political issues while in office.”

Nahid said the July Proclamation must be delivered within the stipulated timeframe, and the election will take place within the announced schedule.

“Before the polls, the July Charter of fundamental reform must be finalised. Visible progress must be made in prosecuting the July genocide, along with a roadmap for justice.”

“The Constituent Assembly election and parliamentary polls must be held together to draft the new constitution,” he added.