Speaking to reporters after attending the NCP’s district coordination meeting at the Tangail Press Club on Monday afternoon, Sarjis Alam said, “We believe there is no reason to deny us the Shapla symbol. Since there is no legal obstacle, we will claim the symbol as our right.”
He added, “When something is our right — NCP’s right — and it is withheld, we must resist such arbitrary actions. If necessary, the NCP will wage a political movement on the streets. Leaders and activists across 495 upazilas in 64 districts are prepared to take to the streets to secure this right. From our position, we are determined to contest the next election with the Shapla symbol.”
Referring to the July Charter, Sarjis Alam said, “The July Charter lacks the signatures of one of Bangladesh’s three major political parties — the one that led the July uprising. Therefore, the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people were not fully reflected in that movement. The interim government cannot proceed toward an election responsibly without addressing this incompleteness. They must fulfill their obligations before moving to polls.”
He further stated that political demands in post-coup Bangladesh should not focus solely on elections. “We also want elections as part of the transition to democracy. There is no objection if the election is held in February,” he said.
On the question of forming alliances, Sarjis Alam noted that it would depend on several conditions. “We can ally with any political party that guarantees the implementation of the fundamental reforms outlined in the July Charter, ensures security and rehabilitation for the families of martyrs and injured activists, and aligns words with actions. Discussions are ongoing with different political parties. If those commitments are not met, the NCP will contest independently rather than for the sake of a few seats,” he explained.
The meeting was presided over by Masudur Rahman Russell, NCP’s Tangail district chief coordinator. It was also addressed by Saifullah Haider, organizing secretary for Dhaka Division, and Saiful Islam, a central committee member.
