A new political platform, Network for People’s Action (NPA), is set to officially launch today, positioning itself as a fresh alternative in Bangladesh’s political landscape. Emerging from the spirit of the July-August mass uprising, the platform has released a draft manifesto that calls for an end to “constitutional autocracy” and the establishment of a state rooted in the will of the people.
The manifesto highlights five core principles—or pillars—that form the foundation of their vision for a “New Bangladesh”:
1. Sovereignty and Independence from Foreign Influence
The NPA emphasizes the creation of a political force that does not bow to any external “master powers” (prohushakti). They advocate for a foreign policy and domestic governance that prioritizes the national interest and the self-respect of the Bangladeshi people, ensuring the country is not used as a pawn in regional or global geopolitics.
2. Equality and Social Justice
A central pillar of the platform is the commitment to Samya (Equality) and Social Justice. The NPA pledges to dismantle the systemic barriers that have historically marginalized the poor and working class. Their goal is to build an economic and social system where wealth is not concentrated in the hands of a few “crony capitalists” but is shared to ensure a dignified life for every citizen.
3. Human Dignity and Inclusive Citizenship
The platform asserts that every citizen, regardless of their race, religion, caste, gender, or ethnic identity, must be treated with equal dignity by the state. The manifesto explicitly mentions protecting the rights of religious and ethnic minorities, ensuring that the state remains a “safe haven” for all, rather than a tool for communal or partisan division.
4. Democratic Transformation and Accountability
The NPA calls for a radical overhaul of the current state structure to prevent the rise of future fascisms. Their pillar of democratic reform focuses on decentralizing power away from a “single supreme leader” and establishing a sustainable system for the peaceful transfer of power. They advocate for a governance model where the people remain the true owners of the state through constant accountability.
5. Protection of Life, Nature, and the Environment
Recognizing Bangladesh’s vulnerability to climate change, the NPA places environmental protection at the heart of its political agenda. This pillar focuses on reclaiming rivers from “land grabbers,” stopping “predatory” mega-projects that destroy biodiversity, and ensuring that development does not come at the cost of the country’s natural heritage.
A Call for Unity In its concluding remarks, the manifesto states that the blood shed by students and workers in July 2024 was not merely for a change of government, but for a fundamental change in the state’s “DNA.”
The NPA has invited activists and citizens to join their movement, stating that their platform will remain a “work in progress” as they incorporate further feedback from the public to finalize their political program. The launch today marks the beginning of their effort to organize a new political strength capable of realizing the aspirations of the recent uprising.
