STAFF CORRESPONDENT

National Citizens Party (NCP) Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary yesterday said the party is ready for either a “ballot revolution” or a “bullet revolution”.

“If Bangladesh continues on the democratic path, NCP is ready for a ballot revolution. But if blood must be shed, we are ready for a bullet revolution too.” Patwary made the remarks at a discussion organised by Jatiya Sramik Shakti at the NCP headquarters in the capital’s Banglamotor.

The NCP leader accused leftist organisations of betraying the working class, saying they have used the red flag as a political façade.

Referring to a particular religion-based party, Patwary said, “We do not believe in politics that exploit religion for votes -- like adding a few words to the constitution or visiting madrasas for photo ops and then forming partnerships with the Awami League. We reject such hypocrisy and want to rebuild a future where no one’s religious values are destroyed amid divisions.”

Coming down on BNP, Patwary said, “If BNP stands against reform, its fate will be no different from Sheikh Hasina’s. Sheikh Hasina at least fled to India; where will Tarique Rahman flee?”

Patwary announced that the NCP will form a “Reform Alliance” ahead of the next general election. “The process is already underway,” he said, urging voters to support reform over party loyalty. “Whether you wear the scale or the sheaf of paddy badge, in the polling booth, you should vote for reform.”

He also warned against the risk of a one-party-dominated parliament. “In the next parliament, we do not want to replace one fascist with another,” he said.

NCP Joint Convener Sarwar Tushar blamed BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami for obstructing institutional reforms, saying both parties prioritise political gain over national progress.