Akhtar Hossain, Member Secretary of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has strongly criticized the Jatiya Party for its stance against the upcoming national referendum, labeling their position as a “fascist tactic.” He remarked that due to this obstructionist role, the people of Bangladesh would likely say “no” to the Jatiya Party itself rather than the referendum.
The NCP leader made these comments on Wednesday afternoon while speaking to journalists after being allocated his election symbol at the Rangpur Deputy Commissioner’s office.
Jatiya Party’s ‘Fascist Character’
Akhtar Hossain alleged that the Jatiya Party is acting as an accomplice to fascism, consistent with its history of being a “domesticated opposition” under previous autocratic regimes.
“The Jatiya Party does not want the country to transition from its current state of systemic collapse. By campaigning for a ‘No’ vote in the referendum, they have once again exposed their fascist character to the nation,” he said.
He further noted that the public would not give importance to the Jatiya Party’s campaign. Instead, he believes the upcoming vote will serve as a rejection of the party’s political legacy.
Concerns Over Law and Order
The NCP member secretary also expressed deep concern regarding the country’s security situation. Highlighting recent incidents of violence, he stressed that the election environment remains tense.
“The deterioration of law and order is evident through recent killings. If the associates of the fallen fascist regime and those involved in the July massacre were arrested and illegal arms recovered, the situation would be much easier to control,” Akhtar Hossain stated. He reiterated his long-standing demand for a complete restructuring of the police force to ensure a fair environment.
Electoral Race in Rangpur-4
Akhtar Hossain is contesting the Rangpur-4 (Kaunia-Pirgachha) constituency under the 10-party alliance with the ‘Shapla Koli’ (Water Lily Bud) symbol.
The competition for this seat remains high, with several prominent candidates in the fray:
- Akhtar Hossain (NCP/Alliance) – Shapla Koli
- Emdadul Huq Bharosa (BNP) – Sheaf of Paddy
- Pragati Barman Toma (BASAD-Marxist) – Scissors
- Abu Sahma (Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis) – Rickshaw
- Ujjwal Chandra Roy (Bangladesh Congress) – Green Coconut
- Abu Naser Shah Md. Mahbuubar Rahman (Jatiya Party) – Plough
- Md. Jahid Hossain (Islami Andolan Bangladesh) – Hand Fan
The general election and the constitutional referendum on the ‘July Charter’ are scheduled to be held simultaneously on February 12, 2026.
