Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizens Party (NCP), which is part of the 11-party electoral alliance including Jamaat-e-Islami, has described the agreement as a “historic moment” and a “historic journey.” He emphasized that while it is an electoral alliance, its political significance is immense.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday night at the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh, in Kakrail, Dhaka, Nahid Islam outlined the alliance’s plans. The conference was called to officially announce the final formation of the 11-party electoral pact.

The alliance announced seat-sharing arrangements for 253 constituencies. The NCP will contest 30 seats, while decisions regarding seat allocations for several other parties, including Islami Andolan Bangladesh, are yet to be finalized.

Addressing the nation, Nahid Islam said, “Today we witness a historic moment, where multiple parties standing for reform, Bangladesh’s freedom, and against inequality and corruption have come together on a single platform. We have decided to participate in the upcoming national elections and referendum in a united manner.”

Leaders from Jamaat-e-Islami, NCP, and eight other parties announced that they would contest the elections collectively through this seat-sharing agreement. Nahid Islam called the alliance a historic journey, adding, “Following the people’s uprising, we aim to realize the aspirations of the nation, and the upcoming elections will be a test of our resolve.”

He further said, “This alliance embodies the vision of a people-driven Bangladesh, equality and human dignity inspired by the Liberation War, and the struggles for independence since 1947. In the upcoming election and referendum, we will work together under this platform. Not all constituencies will have candidates from our parties individually; after today’s announcement, the designated candidates of the electoral alliance will be recognized as such.”

During the press conference, Shafiqur Rahman, Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami, greeted Nahid Islam with a handshake. Opening remarks were delivered by Maulana Mamunul Haque, Amir of Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, and the main address was given by Shafiqur Rahman. Other speakers included Colonel (Retd.) Oli Ahmed, president of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), and Ahmad Abdul Qader, Secretary General of Khelafat Majlis.

The press briefing was moderated by H M Hamidur Rahman Azad, assistant secretary-general of Jamaat-e-Islami and coordinator of the 11-party alliance. On stage were also NCP spokesperson and former adviser Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiya, AB Party chairman Mojibur Rahman (Manju), Habibullah Miazi, Amir of Bangladesh Khelafat Andolan, Sarwar Kamal Azizi, Amir of Nezam-e-Islam Party, A K M Anwarul Haq, president of BDP, and Rashid Pradhan, senior vice president of Jagpa. However, no representatives from Islami Andolan Bangladesh, a key partner of the alliance, attended the conference.