Why Samanta Left the NCP: Alliance with Jamaat, Discrimination in Female Leadership, and More

Samanta Sharmin, a former joint convener of the National Citizens' Party (NCP), has outlined several reasons for her resignation from the party. She cited the formation of an alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami, a lack of democratic practices within the party, and the absence of adequate female representation in decision-making processes as the primary factors behind her departure.

In a statement to *Jugantor* on Friday afternoon (November 6), Samanta explained her reasons for resigning. She alleges that by forging a political alliance with Jamaat, the NCP is losing its own ideological stance and distinct political identity.

Objections to the Alliance with Jamaat
According to Samanta Sharmin, by aligning with Jamaat, the NCP has strayed from the collective aspirations of the 'July Movement' and its own core political ideology. She believes that, as a result of this alliance, the party is gradually becoming subsumed by Jamaat’s political identity.

She asserts that the NCP could have secured more seats had it contested the election independently. In her view, it is precisely because of the alliance with the NCP that Jamaat was able to secure a larger number of seats.

Concerns Regarding Female Leadership and Democratic Practices
Samanta also pointed to the internal environment of the NCP and the status of female leadership as further reasons for her resignation.

She alleges that despite the significant role played by women during the July Movement, they were not granted adequate representation within the party’s top leadership or its decision-making bodies. Instead, discrimination has taken root within the party structure.

She further noted that the lack of internal democratic practices within the NCP also influenced her decision to step down.

Plans to Establish a New Political Platform
Following her resignation, Samanta Sharmin has expressed her intention to move beyond conventional political divisions and help forge a new, progressive political movement.

She stated that the public—led by the youth—had hoped for a political force that would prioritize a new political culture, democratic institutions, and the national interest, rather than merely replicating the old power structures.

She added that she has already begun discussions with like-minded individuals interested in forming this new political platform. A final decision on this matter will be taken only after consulting with all relevant parties.

Samanta further mentioned that she is receiving well-wishes and support from several former top leaders who had previously resigned from the NCP. She intends to work alongside them in the future.