From convoy to controversy: can NCP live up to its reformist image?

To his credit, Sarjis Alam attempted to explain his 100-car motorcade on Facebook, albeit by way of answering Tasnim Jara's query about the source of his funds. Whether this explanation was convincing or satisfactory is certainly up for debate.

But the public exchange between two stalwarts of the newly formed National Citizen Party -- the rightful heir of the July uprising -- seemed like a snatch of a private conversation or one that might have taken at a party forum behind closed doors. Netizens, who seem to be the NCP's primary electorate, are wondering whether this should have happened behind the curtains.

However, the whole affair has caught the attention of thousands because of his novelty. It is quite unthinkable that one frontline party leader would question another's source of funds even in the most private conversations, let alone in public.

What is also evident from Sarjis's supposed explanation -- part of which is essentially justification for what is often called 'showdown' (meaning a show of strength) in Bangladeshi politics -- is that voluntary services need not be counted as funds and further that source of family funds need not be accounted for.

It is important to understand for the young politicians to realise and understand and contributions whether voluntary or solicited, in kind or cash, from family or friends need to be accounted for if they want to distinguish themselves from the rest of our political class. While Sarjis did provide some explanation (half of the motorcade's funds amounting to Tk 300,000 came from his family and half were just enthusiastic supporters joining his convoy), whether acceptable or not, his attempt to justify the motorcade erodes the standard of accountability he has set.

It would be further reassuring if this is not limited to the social media but is actually integrated into the party's communique for all its activities. As such, the NCP is yet to distinguish itself from the other parties with complete account of its finances, especially regarding its launching event and iftar parties.

The NCP boasts that it will usher in a 'new political settlement', a second republic. That will need a show of purpose and resolve, which comes on the back of genuine actions. Not viral FB posts or lavish motorcades.