NCP leaders accused of embezzling millions collected for referendum fund

A faction of leaders from the anti-discrimination student movement has accused several recently joined members of the National Citizens Party (NCP) of embezzling nearly Tk 10 million collected for a referendum campaign.

At a press conference held in front of Madhur Canteen at Dhaka University, the group’s spokesperson Sinthiya Zaheen Ayesha alleged that former platform president Rifat Rashid, organising secretary Moinul Islam, and chief coordinator Hasib Al Islam misappropriated funds raised in support of a ‘Yes’ vote campaign.

“The anti-discrimination student movement belongs to the people, not to any individual or political group. There is no scope to exploit it for personal financial gain,” she said, claiming that the accused collected funds through political channels and diverted the money without transparency.

According to the allegation, concerns over funding sources were raised internally from the outset, but the leadership failed to provide any written documentation, offering only verbal explanations. Leaders further claimed that during a central meeting, their mobile phones were taken away, after which the top leaders allegedly admitted to receiving funds—but did not disclose exact amounts or provide verifiable records.

The group also alleged that government funds were channeled through a foundation without informing central or district committees, raising concerns of large-scale financial irregularities.

Sinthiya rejected counterclaims that the claims were driven by financial demand, stating, “We have never asked for any monetary benefit. If anyone can prove otherwise, we are ready to face legal consequences.”

The press conference also called for structural reforms within the organization, including drafting a new constitution, holding democratic council elections, and ensuring leadership is elected directly by members votes.

The leaders demanded an immediate public disclosure and audit of all referendum-related funds and urged the government to investigate the allegations.

No response was immediately available from the accused individuals.