Nasiruddin Patwary, Chief Coordinator of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP), has responded to a show-cause notice issued by the party leadership, asserting that his recent trip to Cox’s Bazar was not a violation of party discipline, but rather a purposeful political retreat for deep reflection on the nation’s future.
In his formal written reply dated August 7, Patwary clarified that he had no assigned duty from the party on August 5 and had informed both the party’s convenor and member secretary prior to his departure. He also denied all rumors suggesting that he had gone to meet former U.S. Ambassador Peter Haas, calling such claims “fabricated” and “a planned conspiracy.”
But perhaps most notably, Patwary defended the purpose of his trip as an act of political introspection rather than escapism. “Sitting by the sea,” he wrote, “I deeply reflected on the idea of a mass uprising, the structure of the Citizens’ Committee, the National Citizens’ Party, a future constituent assembly, and the outline of a new democratic constitution.”
He added, “I do not consider this a crime. For a political activist, this is a responsible form of mental exercise.”
Patwary also emphasized that history is not always made in meetings alone, writing: “Sometimes, history is born in solitary contemplation, even by the sea.”
Dismissing the allegations against him as baseless, he insisted that his visit was transparent and within the bounds of party guidelines. He concluded his letter with a firm statement:
“Going on a trip is not a crime.”
The NCP has yet to announce whether it considers the explanation satisfactory or if further disciplinary measures will be pursued.
