Some political parties only seek power: Nahid Islam

Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), criticized certain political parties for prioritizing power over genuine reforms. Speaking at a July 13 rally held at the Shaheed Minar premises in Krishnachura Mor, Pirojpur, he emphasized that while some parties demand rapid elections, they neglect the country’s urgent need for reform.

“Some political parties only want power,” said Nahid Islam. “If no one stands for reform, then those of us who joined the July movement, including those who were martyred, have a responsibility to continue the struggle on the streets, regardless of storms or rain.”

The rally, part of the ongoing July march program aimed at nation-building, was held despite heavy rain and storms. Nahid Islam condemned the recent rise in extortion and violence against businessmen, referencing a brutal incident in Dhaka where a businessman was killed after being attacked with stones.

“This kind of lawlessness is unacceptable,” he stated. “With the spirit of the July revolution, God willing, we will take this movement to every district.”

Nahid Islam further reflected on the legacy of the July people's uprising that led to the downfall of the fascist dictatorship under Sheikh Hasina’s government, which had ruled with oppression for 16 years. “No form of cruelty was spared: enforced disappearances, killings, torture, corruption, looting, vote-rigging, and terrorism. The people were denied voting rights multiple times and eventually took to the streets out of sheer anger,” he said.

He added, “The oppression wasn’t just from the government or political parties but involved all state forces, including the police. Our movement aimed for state reform; we rejected returning to the corrupt old system. Eliminating inequality was central to our cause. Now that we have a government post-uprising, it is our duty to support it and work towards rebuilding the country.”

The event saw participation from several NCP leaders, including Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, Senior Joint Secretary Dr. Tasnim Zara, and Southern Region Joint Chief Organizer Mezbaha Kamal. Over a hundred activists from Pirojpur also attended.

Prior to the rally, Nahid Islam and other central NCP leaders met with families of martyrs and injured individuals from the July movement in Pirojpur to offer support and inquire about their welfare.