Emergence of new godfather will not be allowed: Nahid Islam

National Citizens Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam has declared that the party will not allow the re-emergence of any form of political godfatherism in Bangladesh, warning against a return to authoritarian and mafia-style governance.

Speaking at a road meeting held at Shaheed Daulat Maidan in Cox's Bazar on Saturday (July 19), Nahid Islam accused Sheikh Hasina of institutionalizing a "godfatherist system" during her tenure. "Under her leadership, a mini-kingdom of godfathers was created. That era is over—we have bid farewell to that system," he said.

The event was part of NCP's nationwide campaign titled "July March to Build the Nation."

Calling for a complete political overhaul, Nahid emphasized, "Mafia networks, dynastic politics, and dictatorship must be eradicated. Bangladesh must become a people's republic, a truly democratic state."

He also reiterated NCP's broader vision, declaring that "from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal, the sovereign rights of the people of Bangladesh must prevail." Referring to the country's maritime heritage, he said, "The Bay of Bengal has shaped a civilization rooted in struggle and resilience—qualities the people of Cox’s Bazar embody every day."

On local issues, the NCP convener criticized the unchecked exploitation of Cox's Bazar's tourism industry. "While the region is internationally known for its natural beauty, its people remain marginalized. Looting under the guise of development must stop," he said, urging for sustainable and inclusive tourism that protects both the environment and local livelihoods.

Addressing the protracted Rohingya crisis, Nahid acknowledged its humanitarian dimensions but emphasized the burden on local communities. "Cox's Bazar cannot continue to bear the brunt of this crisis indefinitely. The security, economy, and social fabric of the region are under strain," he warned.

He called on the interim government and international community, including Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus, to expedite the safe and dignified repatriation of the Rohingya to Myanmar. "A just and permanent solution must be reached—this is not just about the Rohingya; it's about justice for the people of Cox's Bazar."

NCP leaders including Dr Tasnim Zara, senior Joint Member Secretary; Nasiruddin Patwari, chief coordinator; and Hasnat Abdullah, chief organizer of Southern Region, also addressed the gathering.