NCP demands reforms as prerequisite for national elections: Nahid Islam

The National Citizen Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam has said that the party does not want national elections without reforms.

Speaking at a road meeting in the Berirpar area of Moulvibazar city on Saturday (July 26), Nahid said, "Elections will lack legitimacy without ensuring justice and necessary reforms. The public will not accept such elections. Therefore, we must work toward a consensus-based election process that reflects the progress made in justice and reform."

"We presented numerous demands to the interim government, but all of them have been reduced to mere election-related issues," he added.

Regarding the constitution, the NCP convener said, "We have consistently called for a new constitution—one that guarantees the rights of the people of Bangladesh, acknowledges all historical struggles, and ensures equal rights for all communities regardless of race, religion, or caste. However, many political forces are actively opposing this vision. Several groups have taken to the streets to defend the 1972 Constitution. We believe that the 1972 Constitution was designed to undermine the Liberation War and the true aspirations of Bangladesh’s independence movement, replacing them with the ideology of Mujibism. For the past 15 years, we were complicit in that system. But with the July coup, we have broken away from that conspiracy."

He also alleged that attempts are being made to shift the blame for the police killings in Baniachang, Habiganj onto those involved in the coup.

"Constitutional reform is essential for the country's progress and development," Nahid said.

He also stated that the NCP is committed to improving the living standards of tea workers and ensuring the rights of various ethnic communities.