Leadership Crisis in NCP as 14 Central Leaders Resign Simultaneously

The nascent political party, the National Citizens’ Party (NCP), is facing an unprecedented internal crisis, triggered primarily by its decision to form an electoral alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami. This move has sparked a wave of resignations among the party’s central leadership, escalating rapidly to include prominent figures from across the country. Analysts warn that the exodus of senior leaders could deal a severe blow to the party’s political standing.

The controversy has been further fuelled by questions over the declared income of the party chief, Nahid Islam, intensifying scrutiny from the political arena. Experts note that remaining leaders appear unable to stem the resignations, raising concerns about the party’s cohesion and long-term viability.

Veterans of the July uprising, as well as families of martyrs and those injured during the movement, have voiced disillusionment. They argue that the NCP, founded on the sacrifices of July activists, has betrayed its original principles by entering an alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami. Many senior leaders have openly rejected the decision and withdrawn from electoral activities, viewing the alliance as ideologically incompatible and politically self-defeating.

On Thursday night, Mushfiq Us Salehin, one of the party’s founding members, spokesperson, joint secretary, and head of the media cell, tendered his resignation from all posts, including co-lead of the Policy and Research Wing. On the same day, Khan Mohammad Mursalin, the party’s central joint chief coordinator, also resigned.

Sources indicate that the number of resignations is expected to rise sharply. Several senior figures have expressed frustration that the party, established on the blood of the July uprising, now seems to prioritise political manoeuvring over principles.

Notable central leaders who have resigned include:

Political analysts suggest that the departures reflect deep-seated disagreements over leadership style, decision-making, and the party’s ideological direction. Dr. Sabbir Ahmed, Professor of Political Science at Dhaka University, notes that the resignations represent a significant setback for a young party attempting to establish itself.

Internal reports indicate that a handful of senior leaders continue to distance themselves from party activities, while multiple potential electoral candidates are reconsidering their positions. The NCP’s leadership now faces the urgent task of addressing internal dissent or risk the party becoming politically marginalised.