March 3, 2025
DHAKA – We welcome the launch of the National Citizen Party (NCP), led by individuals from the July uprising that toppled the regime of the Awami League in August 2024. The party has been formed at a time when the people of the country are eagerly looking forward to new political leadership, expecting positive change in our political culture. As the leaders of the newly formed party shared their vision for a new Bangladesh, the public’s response was overwhelmingly supportive. Students, activists, young professionals, and ordinary citizens from across the country participated in the inauguration ceremony to show their backing.
Nahid Islam, the convener of the NCP, vowed to reshape Bangladesh’s political landscape. He declared that the common people will be the supreme source of power in Bangladesh and that their mission is to dismantle constitutional autocracy and establish a robust democratic framework. Nahid also emphasised that the NCP is committed to rebuilding the country’s political and economic institutions, combating corruption and nepotism, and prioritising inclusion, equity, and national sovereignty. While these promises are encouraging, the true challenge for the new party will be in staying true to its word.
Over the past few decades, we have witnessed the failure of major political parties to uphold the democratic spirit of the nation. During the 15 years of AL rule, all major institutions were politicised, rendering them inefficient and incapable of performing their duties. The party’s failure to ensure democratic practices within itself, coupled with widespread corruption and a lack of transparency and accountability, severely damaged our political culture. As a result, the people of Bangladesh are eager for change. Therefore, if the NCP genuinely seeks to become a people’s party, it must first practice democracy within the party itself. It needs to foster an environment where disagreement and debate are welcomed, and everyone’s voice is heard. It is encouraging to see that the party has included people with diverse views and beliefs, with three of the top 10 positions in the committee held by women.
Transparency and accountability will be key factors in determining the future of this party. A lack of transparency has long distanced people from mainstream political parties. The NCP must, therefore, ensure transparency in all its activities, especially regarding its finances. Understandably, launching and running a new political party requires substantial funding, and the NCP must make its sources of funding public—both now and in the future—to ensure transparency. As Nahid has affirmed that the NCP will be a truly democratic, egalitarian, and people-centred political force, it must remain accountable to the people.
We hope that the NCP will set a positive example for other political parties to follow. It has emerged directly from the heart of a mass uprising—led by the very youth who spearheaded it. We wish them success in building the inclusive society they have pledged to create.