Candidacy will be cancelled if linked to corruption, terrorism or fascism: Nahid Islam

Candidacy will be cancelled if allegations of involvement in corruption, terrorism or fascism are proven, said Nahid Islam, the convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP).

He said this on Wednesday, December 10, at a press briefing at the party’s temporary office. Earlier, Member-Secretary Akhtar Hossain announced the list of 125 preliminary candidates.

At that time, Nahid Islam said that no constituency was kept vacant for special individuals. Decisions were made based on reports submitted by the party’s nomination board and were made publicly available. He said this is a screening and verification process. If charges of corruption, terrorism or fascism are proven against anyone, the candidacy will be cancelled.

He congratulated all those shortlisted and assured that those who are not on the list will also be considered. He said that they had called for the politically conscious, the public and change-seekers to join. The list includes individuals outside the party—teachers, doctors, engineers and expatriate Bangladeshis.

Nahid Islam said that efforts were made to make the list inclusive, ensuring representation of men, women, minorities and people from diverse professions. Before finalising 300 seats, further review will be made. He also mentioned that constituencies where nominations have not been finalised, or where stronger candidates emerge, will be reconsidered accordingly.