From Protest to Politics: NCP to face tough road to power

Abu Jakir :

As the National Citizen Party (NCP) emerges as a new political force in Bangladesh, its path forward appears challenging.

Founded in the wake of a massive student-led uprising, the party’s rise has sparked public anticipation while raising questions about its ability to navigate the country’s entrenched political landscape.

With the next general elections expected by the end of the year, the NCP faces the formidable challenge of transforming its momentum into concrete political influence within a short timeframe.

The party was officially launched in the presence of hundreds of thousands on Manik Mia Avenue, in front of the National Parliament. It has vowed to dismantle Bangladesh’s existing political structures.

At a rally marking its debut last Friday, the party’s announcement was made by Meem Akter, sister of the slain activist Md. Ismail Hasan Rabbi.

The party’s convener, Nahid Islam, a key figure in the anti-Hasina movement, declared the establishment of a “Second Republic” as one of NCP’s primary objectives.

Political analysts suggest that surpassing established parties
and seasoned leaders to introduce a fresh political framework will be a formidable task for NCP.

“No new political party in recent history has generated this level of public enthusiasm and expectation,” said Dr Md. Siddiqur Rahman, Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Dhaka University. “However, with that interest comes immense pressure to deliver.”

Dr Rahman highlighted Bangladesh’s history of political change driven by student-led uprisings.

“The students who played a pivotal role in toppling Hasina’s government are now leading this party. Whether they can guide the country towards a new political order remains uncertain.”

Senior NCP leaders remain confident in their ability to challenge the status quo.

“The passion and commitment we have seen during our formation give us the strength to move forward,” said Ariful Islam Adib, Senior Joint Convenor of the party.

“No matter how difficult the journey, we are determined to build a new, democratic Bangladesh.”

For the past 17 years, opposition parties have failed to remove the autocratic regime, but young protesters ultimately achieved what their predecessors could not.

This generational shift in political momentum has emboldened NCP leaders, who have pledged to extend their outreach to rural areas and contest elections to bring about systemic change.

The party’s ambitious agenda includes drafting a new constitution through a Constituent Assembly election, ensuring justice for victims of past political violence, and eliminating dynastic rule in politics.

It has also adopted a strong nationalist stance, asserting that Bangladesh will not tolerate pro-India or pro-Pakistan influences.

Political analyst Dr Badiul Alam Majumder described the emergence of NCP as a positive development. “I hope they will operate transparently and uphold democratic principles,” he said.

“Political competition is healthy, but their ability to unite diverse perspectives will determine how far they can progress,” he added.
Despite its rapid ascent, the NCP faces significant challenges.

Columnist and journalist M. Abdullah noted that the party must clearly define why voters should support them over established political forces.

“The interim government is currently backed by revolutionary student leaders. Any failures on the government’s part could also be linked to the NCP,” he cautioned.

He also pointed out that the party may struggle to position itself in relation to the government. “If the NCP functions as a pressure group to push its agenda, the government’s response will be critical.”

Additionally, the party will have to provide support to the families of those killed or injured in last year’s protests, adding another layer of responsibility.

Financial transparency and internal governance will also be crucial concerns. “In Bangladesh, political parties frequently encounter funding challenges.

Established power brokers will closely scrutinise the NCP’s financial dealings,” Abdullah said.

Furthermore, as a youth-driven party, maintaining discipline among its members will be essential. “Any lapse in conduct or public behaviour could undermine their credibility,” he warned.

To establish itself as a credible political force, the NCP must meet the Election Commission’s registration criteria, select strong candidates, and build a solid voter base.

Financial constraints on campaign operations could also prove to be a significant hurdle.

Ultimately, the party’s success will depend on its ability to position itself as a “balance of power” in the upcoming elections.

If it can channel the energy of its grassroots support into electoral victories, it may well reshape Bangladesh’s political future.

However, the months ahead will determine whether the NCP can transition from a movement into a formidable political institution.