Nahid Islam, the convener of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP), has emphasized the need for a new republic, claiming that despite the Liberation War of 1971, Bangladesh still lacks a fully democratic constitution.
Islam made these remarks on Tuesday morning after paying tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar, during the party’s first event following its formation.
He announced that the process to register the party with the Election Commission is moving forward, and the party’s constitution will be finalized within this month.
According to Nahid Islam, the current political framework is flawed, leading to repeated delays in elections.
"The old governance system needs to be changed to prevent such delays," he said, stressing the importance of reforming the constitutional structure.
Remembering the July Martyrs and Seeking Justice
Tuesday’s program was also held to commemorate the victims of the July coup, according to Nahid Islam.
"Today`s program is so that we can remember those who were martyred in the July coup," he said.
He also demanded speedy justice for the killings that took place under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
"We want to see swift justice for the killings that occurred under Sheikh Hasina`s leadership. We pay our respects to all the struggles of `47, `71, and `24," he added, referencing significant historical movements.
A Call for a Constituent Assembly Election
Nahid Islam believes that the upcoming national election could be a turning point for Bangladesh, with the potential for it to be recognized as both a Constituent Assembly and Parliamentary election.
"Through the Constituent Assembly election, a new constitution and true democracy can be restored," he remarked.
Meanwhile, NCP`s Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain echoed Islam’s sentiments, emphasizing that their party’s priority is to hold a Constituent Assembly election.
“Those who win will serve as Members of Parliament,” Hossain stated.
Strong Presence at the Event
A number of central and local leaders and activists attended the event, including key figures such as Sarzis Alam, Hasnat Abdullah, Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patoary, and Senior Joint Chief Coordinator Hannan Masud.
The leadership highlighted the importance of establishing a more democratic system and vowed to fight for meaningful constitutional reforms.
With its registration process underway and a constitution soon to be drafted, the National Citizens` Party aims to play a key role in Bangladesh’s political landscape, advocating for the establishment of a new republic that reflects true democratic values.