Student-Led National Citizen Party Rallies in Dhaka
Approximately 1,000 supporters gathered at Dhaka’s Shaheed Minar to rally behind the National Citizen Party (NCP), a new political movement formed by students who led last year’s uprising that removed former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from power.
Pledge to Build a “New Bangladesh”
NCP chairman Nahid Islam unveiled a 24-point agenda, calling for a complete political rebirth. The plan includes drafting a fresh constitution, restructuring state institutions, protecting human rights, and ensuring electoral reforms. Islam said the goal is to realize the democratic demands of the July revolution.
Legacy of the July Uprising
Islam referred to last year’s student-led protests as a turning point: “Exactly one year ago at this Shaheed Minar, we vowed to end dictatorship—together we toppled fascist rule and reclaimed our country.” That uprising, sparked by demands for quota reform and broader democratic freedoms, ultimately led to the ouster of Hasina and the establishment of an interim government.
Interim Government, Political Shifts, and Election Watch
Bangladesh remains under interim rule led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, following Hasina’s departure. Despite initial optimism, the country remains politically unstable, with the Awami League banned, Hasina facing charges, and Islamist groups like Jamaat-e-Islami regaining influence. General elections are expected in April 2026, though calls for an earlier poll persist.
Youth Political Momentum
The NCP and university-aligned student wings are drawing strong support from young voters across Dhaka. Many see the party as a vehicle for long-overdue change and institutional reform, replacing older political structures with fresh leadership.
