NCP releases manifesto outlining vision for a ‘New Bangladesh’

One year after Students Against Discrimination (SAD) made their historic one-point demand—the resignation of the then-government—at Central Shaheed Minar, the same landmark on Sunday became the venue for the unveiling of the National Citizen Party’s (NCP) "Manifesto for New Bangladesh." The NCP emerged in the aftermath of last year’s student-led uprising that ousted the Awami League-led administration.

Echoing the symbolic nature of the 2024 one-point demand, the 24-point manifesto was announced by Nahid Islam, now the convenor of NCP and formerly one of SAD’s six central coordinators. After serving on the interim government’s advisory council, Nahid helped launch the NCP in March.

Key proposals in the manifesto include drafting a new constitution for a 'New Bangladesh,' legal recognition of the July Uprising and justice for victims of state violence, sweeping institutional reforms, a reformed and independent judiciary, citizen-oriented law enforcement, and a transparent, corruption-free state apparatus.

Party leaders also called for the constitutional recognition of a "July Declaration" and publicly acknowledged their shortcomings in securing justice for the abductions, killings, and sexual violence committed during the state crackdown a year ago.

The rally marked the first anniversary of the SAD’s pivotal declaration that precipitated the government's fall within 48 hours. Speakers from across the country emphasized the urgent need for institutional reform, judicial autonomy, and depoliticisation of public institutions.

NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain asserted, “The July Declaration must be given constitutional status.” He urged citizens to remain vigilant as guardians of the republic and warned against political interference in the judiciary. “Policies made in the Secretariat must serve the public interest and be shared transparently,” he added.

He also noted that political forces had united under the National Consensus Commission to pursue structural reform. “We joined with hope, and while some goals have been met, full implementation is now essential.”

Southern Region Chief Coordinator Hasnat Abdullah warned that intimidation against NCP supporters would be met with firm political resistance. “We’ve talked for a year. Now is the time to act,” he declared, pledging to carry out the party’s directives—even at great personal cost.

Northern Region Coordinator Md Sarjis Alam denounced the 1972 Constitution as partisan and externally influenced, calling for its replacement. “We cannot accept the continuation of this Mujibist constitution,” he said. “Even after 54 years, our people remain deprived of their rights.”

Senior Joint Member Secretary Dr. Tasnim Jara emphasized the need for a healthcare system where no one is denied treatment due to financial hardship. “Healthcare must never be a luxury,” she said.

Marking the anniversary, Senior Joint Chief Coordinator Abdul Hannan Masud offered a public apology for the NCP’s inability to ensure justice for victims of state repression. “One year ago, we stood here and declared the end of fascist rule,” he said. “We promised a rebirth of democracy, justice, and morality. Today, we must admit—we have not fulfilled that promise. We bow our heads and seek the people’s forgiveness.”