In the aftermath of the student-led revolution that overthrew Sheikh Hasina’s government, thousands once again gathered near Bangladesh’s parliament building as young leaders launched the National Citizens’ Party (NCP).
Since Hasina’s removal in early August, Bangladesh has undergone profound changes, with Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus leading an interim government tasked with restoring democracy.
Students who played a crucial role in the revolution were appointed as advisers, bringing fresh perspectives to governance, while restrictions on political freedoms were lifted. Although the interim administration initially indicated it would remain in power for several years to implement key reforms, mounting pressure has led to the announcement of elections, which is expected to take place in December.
The NCP’s emergence has the potential to alter the electoral landscape, as the once-dominant Awami League remains in disarray, with many of its leaders either jailed or in exile. While the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is anticipated to secure a majority, the presence of the NCP, which enjoys strong youth support, could reshape voter dynamics.
The party’s leaders have outlined an ambitious agenda, calling for a comprehensive political transformation that includes rewriting the constitution and ensuring justice for those killed in the July uprising. The recent UN report detailing human rights violations under Hasina’s rule has further fuelled demands for accountability.
Despite the excitement surrounding NCP’s launch, challenges remain, as internal divisions and logistical issues have hampered its initial activities. Reports of disagreements over the party’s direction, coupled with delays during the launch event, have raised concerns about its organisational capabilities.
Besides, apprehensions persist over the influence of Islamic factions within the party, with some liberal voices questioning its commitment to a secular state. While NCP leaders have rejected these concerns, the rising prominence of Islamist groups following Hasina’s departure has added to the uncertainty.
The formation of NCP also places Yunus’s interim government under scrutiny, as critics question its impartiality due to its association with the student leaders. Although one of them resigned to head NCP, others remain in the administration, prompting BNP leaders to call for a more neutral stance.