Friends Stand Together
NCP Leader Hasnat Abdullah Receives 14 Lakh Taka Check from Schoolmates
In a remarkable and unprecedented display of friendship fueling political ambition, former students of the SSC 2014 batch from Cumilla have united to support their school friend and National Citizens' Committee (NCP) leader, Hasnat Abdullah. The group presented a check for BDT 14 lakh to Hasnat, who is contesting the upcoming election from the Cumilla-4 (Debidwar) constituency, to assist with his campaign expenses.
The formal handover took place today, Friday, during a ceremony held at the Debidwar Reaz Uddin Pilot Model Government High School premises.
A Unique Gesture of Solidarity
The initiative was led by Hasnat’s close school friends, many of whom are currently expatriates living abroad. Driven by long-standing trust, shared childhood bonds, and political alignment, they crowdfunded the amount to ensure their friend could run a campaign free from external pressures.
Key representatives from the 2014 batch, including Sarkar Sakib, Ahmed Shuvo, and Mohtadir Zarif Sikto, along with many others from the batch, were present at the event. Their former teachers, including Jamal Mohammad Kabeer, also attended, offering their blessings and praising the students for their sense of responsibility and for redefining the nature of political support. The friends described the contribution as a "symbol of friendship, trust, and love," expressing hope that Hasnat would play a pivotal role in the development and welfare of Debidwar.
Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
Expressing his profound gratitude, Hasnat Abdullah remarked that this gesture proves that school friendships can transcend personal bonds to become a force for social and political change.
During his speech, he stated:
"Regardless of the politics I represent, not everyone may agree with my ideology. But I give my 2014 batch a commitment: you will find me 100% transparent and accountable. Since I know every road, household, and alley in Debidwar, I believe I have much to offer this region. I can bring a radical change to Debidwar’s health, education, and infrastructure—but I will need your help."
He further emphasized his goal to liberate the region from "dynastic politics" (Paribartantra) and create a Debidwar that is drug-free, terrorism-free, and free from "tender-mongering." He urged his friends to continue their support beyond party lines to help him realize this dream.
Later, in a post on his Facebook page, Hasnat noted: "In exchange for this money, my friends have demanded nothing from me but clarity, transparency, and accountability."
A Positive Shift in Political Culture
Teachers at the ceremony viewed the event as a significant shift in political culture. They noted that when educated youths and honest friends step up to fund candidates, it serves as an inspiration for future generations. They highlighted that this assistance is not merely financial; it is a reflection of trust, deep-rooted relationships, and collective political expectations.