Rift Among NCP Leaders Deepens Amid Cox’s Bazar Trip Controversy

Tensions within the top leadership of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP) have become increasingly evident in political circles, following a controversial trip to Cox’s Bazar by senior leaders. The incident has laid bare a growing internal crisis within the party.

The Controversial Trip

The rift surfaced prominently when five NCP members, including four senior central leaders, went on a covert visit to Cox’s Bazar — on the same day as the party was holding a commemorative event on Manik Mia Avenue marking the anniversary of the mass uprising.

Leaders Involved in the Trip:

Their sudden absence caused uproar within the party. Speculation began to swirl on social and mainstream media that the group held a secret meeting with former U.S. Ambassador Peter Haas, who had previously served in Bangladesh. The alleged meeting, though unconfirmed, fuelled widespread controversy.

Show-Cause Notices and Reactions

Alarmed by the growing tension, the party’s top leadership swiftly issued show-cause notices to the four central leaders, demanding a full explanation of their trip.

In response, Nasiruddin Patwari claimed:

“We simply sat by the beautiful seaside to discuss the future political direction of the party.”

However, Hasnat Abdullah, the chief organiser of NCP, responded more pointedly. In his explanation, he described the “July Declaration” event (which he deliberately avoided) as incomplete and divisive, and stated that his Cox’s Bazar trip was a silent protest against that programme. Ironically, NCP Convener Nahid Islam was present at that very event, highlighting clear divisions within the leadership.

Internal Frustration and Political Fallout

According to internal sources within the party, the leaders who received the show-cause notices did not take them well, which has only intensified the internal discord.

Political analysts believe this episode is symptomatic of a power struggle and mistrust among the NCP’s leadership. They warn that preserving party unity may now become a significant challenge.

Observations:

The coming days will reveal whether this conflict will disrupt the NCP’s political course or force a restructuring of leadership to ensure stability. For now, the future of the party hangs in a precarious balace.