No elections without reform Warns NCP
Staff Reporter :
Nahid Islam, Convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), issued a stern warning on Friday, declaring that the people of Bangladesh would not accept a national election held without comprehensive institutional reforms and judicial accountability.
Speaking at a public rally at Zero Point in Jessore city as part of the NCP’s ongoing July March campaign, Nahid accused those advocating for elections under the current conditions of attempting to obstruct the country’s democratic progress.
“Any election held without first ensuring reform will plunge Bangladesh back into darkness,” he warned. “But the NCP will not allow that to happen. We are committed to building an economy rooted in justice and a political system that reflects the interests of the people.”
Criticising the Election Commission, Nahid described it as “the most dysfunctional institution in the country,” adding that no poll would be credible in the absence of judicial and institutional reform.
He called for sweeping structural changes, including the appointment of impartial individuals to the Anti-Corruption Commission, a merit-based promotion system within the police, and a non-political military establishment dedicated solely to national defence.
“We do not want any involvement of army or DGFI personnel in enforced disappearances. Our vision is a state built on justice, responsibility, and compassion,” he said.
The rally drew a considerable turnout, indicating growing public engagement with the NCP’s reformist message.
It was presided over by Sarjis Alam, the party’s North Zone Chief Coordinator, and featured speeches from senior party figures including Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, Senior Joint Convener Samanta Sharmin, Chief Organiser Hasanat Abdullah, and Central Committee Member Khalid Saifullah Jewel.
Nahid reiterated the NCP’s role in what he termed the “real struggle” for voting rights and political reform. “We have already achieved a second independence. Now, we are determined to deliver reform and safeguard our sovereignty.”
Reflecting on the country’s post-independence journey, he said that over the past 54 years, Bangladesh’s state and constitutional institutions have been stifled by political interference. “Everything has been politicised. We will no longer allow state machinery to be held hostage to partisan interests,” he asserted.
He emphasised the need for a depoliticised, efficient civil service and an impartial police force. “Our institutions must serve the people-not the ruling party. Promotions should be based on merit, not political loyalty.”
Addressing the military’s role, Nahid stressed the importance of a strong, civilian-led defence strategy that upholds national sovereignty. “We are committed to ending the culture of enforced disappearances and to restoring honour to our defence forces. We seek a justice-based welfare state.”
Earlier in the day, the NCP’s Jessore district chapter hosted a views-exchange session at a local hotel. The event brought together regional leaders, including South Zone Coordinator Hasanat Abdullah, Chief Coordinator Nasir Uddin Patwari, Senior Joint Member Secretary Tasnim Jara, and Central Committee Member Nusrat Tabassum.
The National Citizen Party, which emerged from last year’s transformative July movement, continues to position itself as a key player in Bangladesh’s evolving political arena-advocating accountability, institutional reform, and a democratic future founded on justice and national integrity.