Can Citizen Party gain enough clout to stand out in Bangladesh’s moderate middle crowd?

Analysts say the party's actions in the political arena will determine its sustainability

As Bangladesh’s political landscape undergoes a seismic shift, the newly formed National Citizen Party, or NCP, is vying for space in an already saturated centrist arena.

Emerging from the 2024 mass uprising that toppled the Awami League government, the party promises a “second republic” and a new Constitution.

But with centrist politics historically struggling to hold ground in Bangladesh, can the NCP carve out a lasting position, or will it fade like its predecessors?

Unlike religion-based parties that advocate for an Islamic governance system, or left wing groups pushing for a socialist society, the NCP steered clear of such ideologies.

Targeting a broad spectrum of young people—spanning the political spectrum from right wing to left wing, and from different ideologies, religions, and backgrounds—the party has zeroed in on electoral politics.

Its mission is to build a “pluralistic” society rooted in “justice” and “equality”, while promoting a new vision of freedom.

Its vision of a "second republic" and a new Constitution, to be drafted through a Constituent Assembly election, marks a bold departure from conventional politics.

Yet, the challenge lies in gaining mass support and distinguishing itself in an already crowded field.

Political analysts argue that it is still too early to provide a detailed analysis of the NCP, given the limited information available about the party's ideology, manifesto, organisational structure, and framework.

In addition, many new issues will emerge once the party enters the political arena, and it will be their actions that will determine how sustainable the NCP becomes as a political force.

Dhaka University professor and political analyst Zobaida Nasreen told bdnews24.com, "Since they have spoken about two issues—'second republic' and centrism—it remains unclear whether this centrism is truly ideological."

Deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India on Aug 5, 2024, where she remains, while several senior leaders have been arrested, and many others have gone into hiding.

Many Awami League leaders, including former ministers and MPs, are facing trials.

Some top leaders from its coalition partners have also been arrested, and very few of the allied parties remain active.

In this context, the Citizen Party emerged under the leadership of Nahid Islam, one of the key coordinators of the Anti-discrimination Student Movement.

He is joined by Akhtar Hossain, leader of the Gonotantrik Chhatra Shakti, or Democratic Student Power.

He was the social welfare secretary of Dhaka University Central Student Union, or DUCSU.

Nahid left his position as ICT advisor to lead the political party, although his two companions from the movement, Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain and Mahfuj Alam, remain in government roles.

The former ICT advisor read the party's declaration at Friday’s launch event.

He said, "In our 'second republic', we will focus on building a strong defence system to safeguard national interests. We will rebuild the shattered political, social, economic, and cultural institutions, ensuring their democratic character remains intact.

“Through this, we will emerge as a fully democratic state."

The party’s convenor highlighted the goal of building a “pluralistic and prosperous society” while preserving existing ethnic, social, gender, religious, and cultural values and diversity.

Questions have been raised by several political leaders regarding the NCP's "second republic" and Constituent Assembly elections.

In addition, there are questions about whether the party can successfully occupy the space left vacant by the Awami League and its allies in the political arena.

Political analysts suggest that the NCP has potential if it aims to unite a broad range of people in its political vision.

They, however, also point out that no party in Bangladesh, branded as centrist, has managed to remain truly centrist; they tend to either shift to the right or lean to the left.

Former Dhaka University professor of international relations, Amena Mohsin, told bdnews24.com, "When stepping into the real field, the reality changes.

“At that point, a pragmatic approach must be adopted, and a popular appeal has to be created."

"And credibility and acceptability come from that. It's not an ideological party. They follow secular politics—just like BNP, Awami League, and the Jatiya Party."

In Bangladesh, there are both right-wing and left-wing political parties; people have experienced long terms of centrist politics through parties like the Awami League, BNP, and the Jatiya Party.

These parties, while entrenched in power, have been associated with widespread corruption, repression, and mismanagement, often targeting dissenting voices.

The Gono Forum in the early 1990s and the Gono Odhikar Parishad, born from the 2018 movement for government job quota reform, were among the centrist groups that failed to make a significant impact.

The Citizen Party, born out of the 36-day mass uprising in 2024 that toppled the Awami League government, has positioned itself as a new force advocating for centrist politics.

Immediately after the party's announcement, NCP leaders had to explain the inclusion of Muntasir Rahman, an LGBTQ supporter, in its 151-strong convening committee.

One issue that has emerged after the party's debut is the “negligible presence” of ethnic and religious minorities in its core leadership.

While the party pledges to build an “inclusive” Bangladesh and eradicate discrimination, its leadership composition raises concerns about its commitment to these ideals.

Jatiya Nirbachon Parjobekkhon Parishad, or JANIPOP, Chairman Nazmul Ahsan Kalimullah told bdnews24.com, “Centrist politics is about being neither right nor left but finding a middle ground. We’ll need more time to fully understand what this party stands for."

Now the LGBTQ issue has come to the forefront, and issues regarding the distribution of resources between men and women will surface.

“And it doesn’t end there. So, it’s too early to make a judgement,” he added.

FORMATION OF THE PARTY

A non-political organisation called the National Citizens' Committee was initially formed under the leadership of the front-line leaders of the July uprising, with a promise of a “new political arrangement”.

Following this, the prospect of forming a political party was raised by the same individuals.

Around 4:15pm on Friday, during the launch of the NCP at the Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka, participation from the centre, right wing, left wing, Shibir, Qawmi-affiliated groups, Adivasi people, and women was ensured.

Although the presence of minorities and women was limited in numbers, discussions on social media highlighted the central role played by former Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir leaders in the organisation.

Later, when the political party was formed, although the committee was outside Shibir's circle, many of the leaders still had names associated with Shibir, a point that was raised in several circles.

Initially, the names of the convenor and the member secretary were announced by Mim Akhter, the sister of Ismail Hossain Rabbi, who was killed in the July uprising.

After this, Member Secretary Akhtar announced the full convening committee.

He said, “The people of Bangladesh have been given a new opportunity today.

"Those who are ready to take on this new responsibility and aspire to bring something new to Bangladesh. Those who seek to fulfil the dream of the 1971 Liberation War—a nation built on equality, human dignity, and social justice.

“Those who aim to establish an independent foreign policy and improve people's livelihoods. Those who strive to formulate policies in the public interest.

“This is the partial organisational structure of the newly formed National Citizen Party, founded on such determined leadership," Akhtar added.

The convenor committee of the new political party, the National Citizen Party, included ten key positions:

Convenor: Nahid Islam

Member Secretary: Akhtar Hossain

Chief Coordination: Nasiruddin Patwary

Senior Joint Convenor-1: Abdul Hannan Masud

Senior Joint Convenor: Samantha Sharmin

Senior Joint Convenor: Ariful Islam Adeeb

Senior Joint Member Secretary: Tasnim Jara

Senior Joint Member Secretary: Nahida Sarwer Niva

Chief Organiser: Sarjis Alam (North)

Chief Organiser: Hasnat Abdullah (South)

Office Secretary: Saleh Uddin Sifat

These ten members were chosen from the former Gono Odhikar Parishad, Gonotantrik Chhatra Shakti, or Democratic Student Power, Students Federation of Bangladesh, Rashtrochinta, Anti-discrimination Student Movement, and those who had no prior party affiliation.

Among those in the convenor committee, former Chhatra Union leader Anik Roy, Islamic scholar Mufti Fazlul Haque Amini, Adivasi member Alik Mree, and Dalit community representatives Kailash Chandra Rabidas and Bhimpalli David Raju, hold important positions.

Although four former Shibir members, including two former presidents of Shibir’s Dhaka University chapter, distanced themselves from the party, a former Shibir secretary from another university secured a position.

A retired major is also part of the central committee.

HOW MUCH INFLUENCE WILL IT HAVE?

Prof Zobaida said, "The impact they will have as a political party is still in its very early stages. We haven’t yet seen their work or the extent of their reach.

“In fact, from the very beginning, the party has faced accusations of internal conflicts, rivalries, and claims of government backing."

"Until we see their agenda, methods, and actions, it’s difficult to determine what impact this party will have on the existing political landscape," she added.

When asked about expectations from the new political party, she said: "The people have had a bitter experience with existing political parties like the Awami League and BNP.

“It is natural for them to show interest in an alternative party.”

She continued, “However, any political organisation must be people-oriented, gain public trust, and establish itself as a reliable force.

“The question is whether the student-led party will be able to engage with the people’s hopes and aspirations.

"This will decide whether it can sustain itself as a political party."

Zobaida categorised Bangladesh’s political landscape into two types: election-focused parties and those actively engaged in grassroots movements.

“If this party is election-centric, whether it can contest independently is crucial both legally and organisationally.

“Given the existing laws, contesting as a single party in the forthcoming election will be challenging for them, both in terms of legal framework and party structure."

Former Dhaka University professor Amena told bdnews24.com that pragmatism is essential in politics.

“A sustainable political party cannot function solely on ideology.”

Referring to discussions with her students, she said: “They have given me a positive impression. They believe young leaders can better understand the public pulse, whereas mainstream party leaders remain disconnected from ordinary people.”

She warned, however, that the new party’s leaders must avoid sycophancy.

“It can emerge within them as well, just as it does in established parties.”

According to Amena, inclusivity and compromise are crucial for the party’s survival.

“To establish credibility and sustain itself, the party must adopt an inclusive approach and be willing to compromise.”

JANIPOP chief Nazmul predicted the emergence of more political parties.

“This is just the beginning. More parties will come forward.”

He said the influence of the new party will depend on how it handles key political issues.

“I do not see any party in Bangladesh practising centrist politics. They are either right-wing or left-wing. The way this new party navigates these dynamics will determine its identity and impact.”

Further indications of new parties emerging came from a Facebook post by Naim Ahmad, a central organiser of the National Citizens' Committee.

Naim, a former leader of the Islamist student organisation Shibir, wrote on the party’s launch day: "I have confidence in my organisational communication abilities. After Ali Ahsan Zonaed [former president Shibir’s Dhaka University Chapter] returns to the country, if he gives instructions, I will give my utmost effort."

He added, “I aim to connect at least 520 organisers with him. That is the minimum. I believe I can accomplish this in a short time with your support. Time is very limited! I plan to travel to all 64 districts.”

Zonaed’s name was previously mentioned for a senior joint convenor role in the new party.

However, he later said in a Facebook post that he would not be joining.

Rafe Salman Rifat, another former Shibir president, posted that he, too, would not be part of the new party.

In addition, former Shibir leader Arefin Mohammad Hizbullah has reportedly distanced himself from the party.

He has already resigned as co-spokesperson of the National Citizens’ Committee.

WHAT POLITICAL PARTIES SAY

The newly formed political party has announced plans to establish a “second republic” and draft a new Constitution.

The initiative aims to dismantle the existing “fascist system” and reconstruct a “rights-based state,” sparking fervent debates in political circles.

The party’s emergence, however, has drawn criticism, with concerns over government cooperation, alleged involvement of intelligence agencies, and other contentious issues.

Student leaders have also called for a Constituent Assembly election and a “new independence”.

BNP QUESTIONS 'SECOND REPUBLIC'

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has questioned the National Citizen Party’s, or NCP, promises regarding the “second republic” and the Constituent Assembly election.

“Has our current republic fallen ill? When is a second republic established?” he asked during a press conference on Saturday afternoon.

“Why should there be a Constituent Assembly election? There could be underlying motives behind this,” he added.

Salahuddin continued: “Those who are advocating for a second republic either do not understand the implications or do understand that this is part of a conspiracy to push our state system into prolonged undemocratic rule.”

“I want to examine [NCP’s] objective. I read in the newspapers that one of their key aims is to establish a ‘second republic’ through a Constituent Assembly election and draft a new Constitution.”

He clarified: “I don’t intend to criticise. Every political party has its own policies, ideologies, and declarations in its constitution and manifesto.”

“Some advocate for socialism, others for different systems, and some may even seek to establish a religious state. A political party’s manifesto can contain all these ideas.”

Despite his concerns, Salahuddin noted that the BNP has welcomed the emergence of the new party.

COMMUNIST PARTY’S PERSPECTIVE

The Communist Party of Bangladesh, or CPB, General Secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince told bdnews24.com:

“Yesterday, they spoke of a new independence and drafting a new Constitution. What does ‘new independence’ mean? A country attains independence only once. We are already an independent nation.

“Many who speak of a new independence do so to reject the historical narrative of the Liberation War. We want to understand if they are promoting such rhetoric.”

He continued: “The question is, we already have a Constitution—the 1972 Constitution. We believe its fundamental principles are sound. However, even in 1972, we recognised its shortcomings and proposed necessary reforms. Now, they are talking about drafting an entirely new Constitution, and we seek clarity on their stance.”

“We believe that following a mass uprising, one of Bangladesh’s most urgent needs is to transfer power to an elected government, which can then implement necessary reforms to advance the country. However, this new party is calling for a Constituent Assembly election and other measures, and we are not yet clear on their position.”

When asked what he expects from the new party as a senior politician, he responded: “Many young people have disengaged from politics. Their participation is a positive development.”

“I hope they embrace the spirit of our great Liberation War, democracy, secularism, and the fight for an equitable society. If they contribute in these areas, it will be a positive addition to Bangladesh’s political landscape. I expect the youth to take on this constructive role,” he added.

JAMAAT-E-ISLAMI’S RESPONSE

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has also welcomed the emergence of the student-led political party, calling it a “positive development”.

“We see the formation of this new political party as a step in the right direction,” said Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar.

The Constitution grants every citizen the right to form political parties, he pointed out.

“At a time when the country is undergoing reform efforts and moving towards elections in a democratic and open environment, we welcome the emergence of this youth-led party,” he added.

Porwar elaborated: “For a long time, our political landscape has been plagued by bitterness, violence, and conflicts. This new party has the potential to help free politics from such turmoil.”

“Young people today are more educated, skilled, and aware. If they can contribute to maintaining a peaceful political environment and preventing disorder, they can positively influence society.”

“If they remain committed to this approach, they will resonate with an educated and informed society. That is why we consider their emergence a promising sign,” he added.

ISLAMI ANDOLAN BANGLADESH’S VIEW

Maulana Yunus Ahmad, secretary general of Islami Andolan Bangladesh, commented: “Everyone has the right to form a political party, including them. However, it is too early to predict their success or failure.”

“Nonetheless, if they proceed with sincerity and determination and receive cooperation from all parties, they may succeed,” he added.

Highlighting the challenges of Bangladeshi politics, particularly the suppression of opposition voices, he remarked: “They will need great courage and resilience to move forward.”

When asked about his party’s stance on the new party’s advocacy for centrist politics, he said: “Islami Andolan Bangladesh always stands for Islam, the nation, and humanity. If any party works in these interests, we will support them wholeheartedly. If they oppose these values, we will not stand with them.”

INITIAL SETBACK WITH LGBTQ

New political party’s committee member Muntasir has sparked controversy after some of his photos circulated on social media since Friday night.

In response, Hasnat and Sarjis, key organisers from the southern and northern regions, clarified their stance on Saturday through identical social media posts.

They said, "Before politics, my primary identity is that I am a Muslim. I uphold this identity and will always do so.

“I will never engage in any politics that goes against my faith or the beliefs of my country’s people. Let it be clear that nothing contrary to religious values will ever find a place in my or our politics."

They described the situation as an “unintentional mistake”.

"We are not infallible. If we make mistakes, consider us your own brothers and correct us. Without any ‘ifs’ or ‘buts,’ we will rectify our errors."

Several other party leaders shared their statement, echoing similar sentiments.

Mahin Sarkar, who has been involved in the Anti-discrimination Movement, pointed out that Muntasir had arranged a "safe home" during the July movement.

In a Facebook post, he wrote: "Muntasir arranged a ‘safe home’ for us, but I was unaware of his actions. We do not want homosexuality in Bangladesh.”

Referring to Hasnat’s statement, young researcher Mir Hojaifa Al Mamduh, who has been active in different rights movements at Dhaka University, said: "Then you should have named the party the National Muslim Party! Why pretend to be a citizen party?"

Regarding the NCP’s political approach, he further wrote in a Facebook post: "What we needed was a politics where the leader would say—this is my faith, but my politics will not bow to any religion or belief.

“Rather, it will stand for every life and nature while respecting differences in beliefs," he added.

CRITICISM OVER BUS REQUISITION FOR NCP’S LAUNCH

There has been social media backlash over Pirojpur deputy commissioner’s bus requisition for the National Citizen Party’s launch.

Chief Advisor's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam claimed at a media briefing that the interim government had not intervened in the matter.

However, Transparency International Bangladesh, or TIB, raised deep concern over the issue.

The agency says the government cannot dodge responsibility for such "abuse of power and immorality" at the very birth of the NCP.

The anti-corruption body also called for the abandonment of "old authoritarian practices" under the banner of the "second republic" and the "new political settlement”.

[Writing in English by Arshi Fatiha Quazi and Sheikh Fariha Bristy]