I cannot remain in a party run on Israeli money: Reza Kibria

Former MP Dr Reza Kibria has said he cannot remain in a party that is run on Israeli money, explaining his decision to step away from Gono Odhikar Parishad. He made the remarks in a recent interview with a private television channel.

Referring to his changes of political affiliation over time, Reza Kibria said he was initially with Gono Forum. He said the party split after disagreements emerged over whether to join parliament, with one faction favouring a boycott and the other supporting participation, leading to political deadlock.

Explaining why he joined Gono Odhikar Parishad, he said he did so at the request of the late Dr Zafrullah Chowdhury. “I had great respect for Dr Zafrullah Chowdhury. At his request, I stayed there for some time,” Reza Kibria said. “But there is no question of my staying in a party that operates under Israelis and is run with Israeli money.”

He further claimed that he was not aware of the issue initially. He said the matter later came to light through media reports and was confirmed by remarks made by the Palestinian ambassador.

“In his words, the Palestinian ambassador said that there were meetings with Mossad at three different places involving Nurul Haq Nur,” Reza Kibria said. “That is when I became completely certain about the issue.”