Dhaka, Oct 22 (V7N) – Nahid Islam, Convenor of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP), has said that there is no scope for forming a caretaker government before the national referendum. Speaking to reporters after a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna on Wednesday evening, he emphasized that the formation of the caretaker government falls under the July Charter. Discussions on the process have already taken place at the consensus commission, and the government can finalize the matter only after the referendum.

“The interim government was formed with a promise to hold elections through reform and judicial processes. We have advised the advisers to restructure themselves considering the allegations against them. Student advisers are not representing any party but the people’s movement; other advisers may have political affiliations, which the government must consider,” Nahid Islam said.

He also raised concerns over political influence in administrative postings, saying major political parties are allocating positions like district commissioners and police superintendents. “If this continues, government neutrality will be undermined. We have urged the Chief Adviser to ensure impartiality and address advisers with partisan connections,” he added.

On human rights and justice, Nahid Islam praised the trial of several military officers involved in crimes against humanity at the International Crimes Tribunal. He stressed that pending July 1971 cases across the country need a clear pre-election roadmap to protect victims’ families from threats by those released on bail.

Regarding the July Charter, Nahid Islam stated that NCP has presented its position to the government and will only endorse it after receiving assurance of implementation. “We do not trust the charter on paper alone. Its validity should be established through a constitutional order issued by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, derived from the sovereign authority of the people during the July uprising. This order must be extra-constitutional,” he explained.

He added that the note of dissent has no practical effect; all agreed-upon matters will go to the referendum. Following approval, the next parliament will undertake structural reforms based on government decisions, which will guide NCP’s endorsement of the charter.

Nahid Islam also expressed concerns over the neutrality of the Election Commission. “The commission is not acting impartially as a constitutional body. Bias toward certain parties is evident. Regarding the Shapla election symbol, the commission must provide a legal explanation. Until then, we will not accept any alternative symbol. If justice cannot be ensured in even minor matters, elections under this commission cannot be impartial,” he said.

NCP leaders, including Northern Chief Organizer Sarjis Alam, Senior Joint Convenor Samantha Sharmin, and Joint Convenor Khaled Saifullah, accompanied Nahid Islam to the meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at 5:00 pm.

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