Nahid Islam, Convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has reaffirmed his commitment to establishing a state-structure based on social equality and “Insaf” (justice). Addressing the nation on Bangladesh Television (BTV) on Sunday evening ahead of the 13th Parliamentary Election and referendum, he called for breaking the old political order to build a new Bangladesh.
A Vision of Liberalism and Coexistence
Explaining the nature of the proposed state, Nahid Islam drew parallels with countries like Malaysia and Turkey. “Bangladesh will never become Afghanistan; it will remain Bangladesh,” he asserted. He envisioned a religious yet liberal society where religion remains a matter of personal belief and social practice, while the state is governed by law and equity.
“We want to build a state system where religious and ethnic identities do not cause division, but rather serve as a foundation for mutual respect and coexistence,” he said.
Key Reforms: Security and Administration
Nahid Islam outlined several radical reforms intended to modernize the nation and protect its sovereignty:
- National Defense: Introduction of mandatory military training for all capable 18-year-old citizens to build a strong national defense system.
- Police Reform: A complete overhaul of the police force, including renaming it the ‘Jonosebok Bahini’ (People’s Service Force). To prevent political interference, recruitment and postings would be entirely upazila-based.
- Foreign Policy: Shifting from an “India-dependent” policy to a balanced and dignified diplomatic stance.
Health, Education, and Economy
To combat corruption, the NCP chief announced that government doctors and health workers would be prohibited from private practice, though “afternoon service” would be ensured at government hospitals. In the education sector, he promised a 5% GDP allocation, alongside increased dignity and accountability for teachers.
Regarding the economy, Nahid Islam vowed to recover approximately $234 billion laundered abroad during the previous regime. He stated that the assets of looters would be confiscated and managed under a Public Trust for the welfare of the people.
Election and Referendum
Nahid Islam concluded by criticizing recent instances of extortion and “dominance” by certain political groups following the fall of the previous regime. He urged voters to support the candidates of the 11-party electoral alliance in the upcoming polls scheduled for February 12.
The election will see 51 political parties competing from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The NCP is contesting 29 seats as part of the alliance and one seat independently under the ‘Shapla Koli’ symbol.
