Dispute in Nagorik Committee over members’ China visit

A dispute has emerged within the Jatiya Nagorik Committee over the inclusion of some members in a delegation of 22 political leaders from eight parties, including the BNP, who travelled to China on Monday at the invitation of the Communist Party of China.

In a press release issued at midnight, the committee stated it was unaware of the visit and had received no formal invitation. It clarified that no official representative was part of the delegation or authorized to act on its behalf.

"If any individual joins the delegation or claims to represent the Jatiya Nagorik Committee without approval, their actions are personal and not linked to the committee," the release stated.

Among the delegates are Ali Ahsan Zonaed and Rafe Salman Rifat, both former leaders of Islami Chhatra Shibir's Dhaka University unit. Zonaed is reportedly being considered for a senior role in a new political party launching Friday at Manik Mia Avenue.

Internal tensions have risen within the committee over leadership appointments in the new party. Some oppose giving key positions to former Shibir leaders, fearing it would reinforce the Awami League's claim that the July uprising was backed by Jamaat-Shibir. Others support a more inclusive approach.

As a compromise, the committee recently introduced two new senior positions—senior joint convener and senior joint member secretary—alongside the existing four key posts of convener, member secretary, spokesperson, and chief organiser.

Zonaed was reportedly being considered for the senior joint convener role, while discussions were ongoing about a position for Rifat. However, their unapproved China visit has raised fresh concerns within the committee.

Following the press release, several leaders expressed unease over Zonaed and Rifat's action. Some suggested this could impact Zonaed's potential leadership role in the new party.

The Nagorik Committee has urged all parties to avoid confusion and requested verification of any representation claims before acknowledgment or action.

However, around 12:28am, Zonaed in a Facebook post said, "The new political party, set to launch on February 28 under the leadership of young individuals, will not include me. I informed the party leaders about my decision more than a week ago. In the interest of greater unity and to keep the nation's focus on the new party, I chose to remain silent. However, the speculations have not stopped, so I want to make my position clear."

"Look, for Bangladesh's future, a political party led by those who spearheaded the uprising is necessary for the country's best interests. I extend my prayers and best wishes to this new political party. May it always remain committed to honesty and justice, as per the people's aspirations. May it establish a new political culture that eliminates all avenues for corruption," he said in the status.

"Although my repeated calls went unheeded, I still hope that democratic processes and inclusiveness will define this party. Even after facing unfortunate realities, I sincerely wish that this party will break free from the politics of tagging and taboos, ushering in a new era of politics, he said.

Zonaed further said, "I also hope that the sense of brotherhood, love, and cooperation we shared during the uprising will continue in this new political journey, with mutual respect remaining unchanged. Best wishes to the new party, Nahid Islam, and the emerging leadership."