Nahid Islam, the Convenor of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP), has issued a stark warning about renewed street agitation if the “unofficial pact” made after the July Uprising is not upheld. In an exclusive interview with Amar Desh, Nahid claimed that an understanding had been reached between the military, political parties, student groups, and Interim Government head Dr. Muhammad Yunus — but it is now being violated.
“If this deal is not honored, we will be forced to return to the streets — even if that means standing in front of bullets,” Nahid said.
A Lonely Yunus and Questionable Elections
Nahid believes Dr. Yunus has become increasingly isolated. He expressed dissatisfaction over Yunus’s recent London meeting with BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman, after which the election timeline was shifted without broad political consultation.
“We had said no election date should be declared before the July Charter. But after Yunus’s London trip, a new date was announced without discussion with other parties. It makes it seem as though the government is serving the interests of one party,” Nahid stated.
He warned that taking national decisions from abroad undermines sovereignty and raises questions about neutrality. “Is the government afraid of political forces, or is it accountable to the people and students who led the uprising?” he asked.
Call for a New Constitution and Political Order
According to Nahid, focusing on elections while ignoring deeper reforms is a mistake. He emphasized the need for structural changes to the Constitution to prevent authoritarianism.
“The July Uprising wasn’t mob violence as some try to claim — it was the culmination of a 16-year struggle by students and citizens. Unless that history is recognized politically and constitutionally, its significance will be lost,” he said.
He reiterated the need to form a new political platform, rooted in the uprising’s aspirations. “That’s why we created NCP. We advocate for democracy, an egalitarian society, and a Bangladesh-first politics,” Nahid declared.
Military’s Role Under Scrutiny
Nahid accused the military and DGFI of not honoring the post-July Uprising understanding. He criticized recent remarks by the army chief indicating elections must be held by December — a timeline Nahid claims reflects BNP’s agenda.
“DGFI has returned to its old role — media manipulation, political engineering, and controlling the formation of new parties. If the agreement is violated, we are ready to go back to the streets,” he said.
Despite this, he affirmed support for the military as an institution but urged it to stand with the people. “Young officers and soldiers supported the uprising. The institution should reflect that.”
Enforced Disappearances, DGFI, and RAB
On the topic of disappearances, Nahid expressed disappointment over the lack of progress by the Enforced Disappearances Commission and ICT trials. He alleged direct involvement of DGFI and military officers in such cases during past regimes.
“DGFI has shown no remorse for its role. They are still controlling the media, trying to create and break political parties, instead of focusing on national security,” he said.
Nahid also personally supported disbanding RAB and called for extensive reforms of DGFI, NTMCC, and other security agencies. “Phone surveillance is still rampant. Without reform, no citizen is safe in conversation.”
Media Bias and Propaganda
Nahid criticized sections of the media for spreading propaganda against NCP and the student movement. “While others looted, these students upheld their responsibilities. And yet, they are being vilified. If the youth lose hope in this country, they won’t rise again.”
Militia Debate
Responding to past proposals to form a militia post-uprising, Nahid said they rejected the idea to avoid potential chaos and state-sponsored abuses like those seen with the Rakkhi Bahini after 1971.
“Without an organized party structure, controlling such a force would’ve been difficult,” he explained.
