National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam on Wednesday said the party is participating in the election to ensure a ‘Yes’ victory in the referendum, not to come to power, following the announcement of its candidates for 125 constituencies.

“Let us not forget, this election is essentially a referendum. The main question is ‘Yes’ or ‘No’. That is why we are contesting,” he said while speaking at a press briefing at the party’s makeshift office at Banglamotor in the capital.

Asked about the number of seats NCP might win in the general election, he said, “We are not contesting with a mindset of securing a specific number of seats. Had we aimed for power, we would have joined some big alliance.”

Criticising the electoral environment, Nahid alleged that NCP posters are being torn in several areas and many are violating election rules. “Some are even showing armed demonstrations to intimidate.”

He criticised the Election Commission, saying, “Mafia candidates and loan defaulters have been given nominations. Whether the commission will act against them will determine how fairly it conducts the election process.”

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Recalling the party’s formation, Nahid said, “We waited seven months, hoping that existing political parties would reach a consensus to fulfil the aspirations of the young generation. Since they failed and remained busy with internal disputes and party agendas, NCP was formed to realise the youth’s aspirations.”

On Wednesday, NCP released its preliminary list of candidates for 125 constituencies. Nahid will contest from Dhaka-11, which includes Badda, Bhatara and Rampura areas.

BNP candidate MA Qaiyum is also running from this constituency.