On the anniversary of the fall of fascist rule, the National Citizens’ Party (NCP) held a mass rally at Dhaka’s Central Shaheed Minar on Sunday to unveil its "Declaration for a New Bangladesh."
The 24-point manifesto outlines a structural blueprint for a new political order and calls for the formation of a "Second Republic."
NCP Convener Md. Nahid Islam formally presented the declaration at around 6:00 PM, stating, “This manifesto represents the foundational structure for the future Bangladesh on which the NCP will base its political direction.”
He recalled how, a year ago at the same venue, the NCP called for the downfall of what it termed a fascist regime, achieved through the sacrifices of students, workers, and citizens.
He emphasized that changing rulers alone was not sufficient, and that a fundamental transformation of the governance system was essential. The NCP was founded on February 28 to pave that path of change, he said.
Key Points of the 24-Point Manifesto
New Constitution and Second Republic: The first point calls for the drafting of a new constitution to establish a Second Republic.
Justice for State Crimes: The second point demands exemplary punishment for crimes against humanity, including the July massacre, Shapla Chattar killings, the BDR mutiny, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings, allegedly committed under the Awami League regime.
Democracy and Justice Reform: Points three and four emphasize reforms of democratic institutions and the justice system.
Anti-Corruption Measures: The fifth point proposes a fast-track system for trying corruption cases and enacting a Whistleblower Protection Law, along with overhauling current anti-corruption laws and integrating anti-corruption education in schools.
Law Enforcement Reform: The sixth point advocates for a people-friendly law enforcement system, including the dissolution of RAB, modernization of colonial-era police laws, formation of a permanent police commission, and safeguards against using intelligence agencies for political suppression.
Other points in the declaration address issues such as: Public service reform and decentralization through local governance and "village parliaments", Independent media and a robust civil society, Universal healthcare and education reform, Innovation and digital transformation, Equal rights for religious and ethnic minorities, Women’s safety and empowerment, Youth employment and entrepreneurship, Sustainable agriculture and food sovereignty, Workers’ and farmers’ rights, Urban planning and transportation, Climate resilience and protection of rivers and oceans, Rights of expatriate Bangladeshis, A sovereign, independent foreign policy and defense strategy
Party Leaders Speak
Senior Joint Secretary Dr. Tasnim Zara emphasized the party’s commitment to an equitable healthcare system and youth involvement in politics.
Joint Convener Ariful Islam Adib accused the previous regime of endangering national sovereignty and stressed the need for a stronger defense policy.
Another joint convener, Samanta Sharmin, demanded the trial of Sheikh Hasina, vowing that the NCP would never vacate the streets.
Lead Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary said, “If we continue this struggle without money, lobbying, or corruption, then, God willing, we will form the government from this very Shaheed Minar.”
Southern Coordinator Hasnat Abdullah and Northern Coordinator Sarjis Alam echoed strong opposition against intimidation and called for justice for the victims of political violence.
NCP General Secretary Akhtar Hossain demanded constitutional recognition for the “July Charter,” declaring that the interim government must implement its contents, with citizens acting as its guardians.
