We envision a Bangladesh without discrimination: Nahid Islam

National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam has called for building a new, just, and discrimination-free Bangladesh, following what he termed the spirit of the July uprising.

Speaking as the chief guest at the 'Desh Gorte July Padajatra' organised by the NCP at the old bus terminal in Narail on Thursday afternoon (July 10), Nahid outlined the party's vision for a reformed nation rooted in equality, merit, and justice.

"The July uprising has awakened our dream of a Bangladesh where justice prevails, rights are protected, and people are employed based on merit,” said Nahid. “We want to build a country free from terrorism, extortion, and political discrimination."

He also demanded the trial of past genocides, a new constitution, and sweeping reforms of the judicial system. Addressing the current political landscape, he alleged that despite the momentum of the recent uprising, "extortion, terrorism, and conspiracies" are continuing across the country. "We are the youth who risked our lives to topple the fascist regime. Now, we are ready to lead the rebuilding of this country," he declared.

Highlighting the lack of progress in Narail—a district with historical and cultural significance as the home of SM Sultan and Bir Shreshtha Nur Mohammad—Nahid criticized the government's failure to ensure development. "The development this land deserved has not come. We are committed to ending regional neglect and ensuring equal opportunities for all," he added.

Referring to Bangladesh's political history, Nahid stated, "We have seen 54 years of the country’s existence and 16 years of authoritarian rule. It's time to ensure that no new dictatorship is born. The youth now have the opportunity to shape a new future."

Introducing the NCP as a youth-driven movement born out of street protests, he said, "We didn’t plan to become a political party. We entered the field to dismantle a broken system and offer a true alternative."

Northern region chief organizer Sarjis Alam urged voters not to succumb to monetary influence during elections, saying, "To build a nation, we must vote for ideals, not individuals."

Hasnat Abdullah, chief organizer for the southern region, accused the Election Commission of undermining democracy in past elections. "We witnessed the consequences of Nurul Huda’s fraudulent night-time voting," he said.

Other speakers included NCP District Chief Coordinator Lt. Col. (Retd.) M Shabbir Ahmed, Joint Coordinator Md Shariful Islam, and Central Youth Power Joint Secretary Mahmuda Sultana Rimi.