“I Won’t Quit the Election for a Ministerial Promise,”

President of Nagorik Oikya, Mahmudur Rahman Manna, has firmly stated that he will not withdraw from the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, regardless of any promise of becoming a minister.

Speaking at a gathering in Uttara, Dhaka, Manna revealed that some individuals had suggested he step aside from electoral politics in exchange for a ministerial position. He rejected the idea outright, calling it contrary to the spirit of politics.

He said that accepting such an offer would reduce politics to charity or personal gain. According to him, participating in elections is an essential part of political engagement, and he is determined to remain in the race.

Responding to questions from journalists, Manna said he does not concern himself with whether the offer was real or not. His focus, he emphasized, is on continuing political activism and contesting elections. “If I become a minister later, so be it—but I will not abandon the election,” he added.

During the event, he also acknowledged the leading role played by students and local residents of Uttara during the July movement. The program concluded with campaign activities supporting a ‘Yes’ vote in the referendum and demands for justice in a killing case.