Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP) proposed new political settlement which revolves around three pillars: justice, reform, and a constituent assembly election to replace the current constitution, which NCP convener Nahid Islam called “fundamentally flawed.”
Citing a UN Human Rights report, he stressed the necessity of profound structural reforms to create a truly democratic Bangladesh.
On Monday, March 24, he said this at an Iftar Mahfil in honour of foreign diplomats stationed in capital, highlighting pressing global and national issues while outlining its vision for a new Bangladesh. The event, held in capital's Banani, was attended by central NCP leaders, including convener Nahid Islam and member secretary Akhter Hossen, alongside foreign envoys and civil society representatives.
Nahid Islam underscored Bangladesh’s history of struggle, linking it to contemporary global crises. “We strongly condemn the ongoing, brutal attacks on civilians in Gaza,” he stated, calling for unified international action. Turning to regional issues, he emphasised the plight of nearly one million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, urging the global community to share the responsibility for their safe and voluntary repatriation.
July Uprising, which saw mass participation from students, gen-z, and workers, was a key focus. Nahid described it as “one of the most powerful democratic uprisings of our time.” He accused the previous Hasina regime of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and systemic corruption, stating, “Thousands were killed or permanently maimed. These atrocities have been clearly documented and recognised internationally.” Justice for these victims, he stressed, remains central to NCP’s mission.
Akhter Hossen reinforced this stance. “Bangladesh is on the path of democratic transformation,” he said, urging diplomats to support this journey. He referenced a recent UN report on the ‘july massacre’, which also called for systemic reforms. The party firmly believes that the upcoming election should not be a traditional one but rather an election for a constituent assembly, which will first draft a democratic constitution before forming a new government.
Akhter acknowledged the United Nations secretary-general’s recent visit, during which he expressed support for reform efforts. “We believe multiparty democracy, cultural diversity, and communal harmony must be the foundations of our future governance,” he asserted. However, he also demanded justice for the victims of past state violence, ensuring accountability for crimes against humanity.
NCP’s leaders ended the event by inviting all political forces and civil society groups to join their reform agenda. “We are not just a new party,” Nahid said, “but the beginning of a new political culture; one rooted in dignity, justice, and the collective dreams of our people.”
As the Iftar drew to a close, the event served as both a diplomatic gathering and a bold declaration of NCP’s political roadmap, setting the stage for its future engagements on national and international platforms.
NRE/ST
