Mahfuj Alam, former adviser to the interim government, on Sunday said that that he would not join the National Citizen Party (NCP) and saying that he has rejected an offer to contest the national election from a Dhaka seat under the Jamaat-NCP alliance.
In a Facebook post today, Mahfuj said maintaining his ideological position was more important than securing a nomination.
"It is not true that I was not offered a proposal from the Jamaat-NCP alliance. However, maintaining my long-standing position is far more important to me than becoming a candidate for a Dhaka seat under this alliance," he wrote.
He clarified that he had provided strategic guidance to NCP and the Nagorik Committee over the past 18 months, as both were led by his "July co-fighters."
"In the existing reality, my respect, affection, and friendship for my July co-fighters will not be erased. But, I am not becoming a part of this NCP," he noted.
Explaining his decision, he noted the failed attempt to establish the NCP as a "Big July Umbrella" and questioned whether the platforms had truly embraced principles such as a new political-economic settlement, cultural resistance to fascism, and building a society of empathy.
Describing the current political climate as a "cold war," Mahfuj argued neutrality was the most prudent path.
He expressed optimism about the rise of an "alternative and centrist youth force" and pledged to continue activism through political, cultural and intellectual means.
"If you care to join me, you are most welcome," he added, while demanding justice for Sharif Osman Hadi.
