Dhaka: National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam, in a televised address this evening, outlined a sweeping reform agenda emphasizing social justice, economic fairness, and accountable governance while sharply criticizing past governments for discrimination and neglect.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Nahid, also a former adviser to the Interim government, stated, “For too long, ordinary citizens have been denied dignity and fairness,” during his address broadcasted by Bangladesh Television (BTV). He promised to dismantle structures of privilege and ensure equal opportunities for all, declaring that no citizen should feel marginalized in their own country.
Islam, a key coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement that toppled Sheikh Hasina in 2024, devoted a significant portion of his speech to social welfare. He pledged to expand pensions, improve education, and guarantee healthcare for every family, criticizing past governments for their neglect in these critical areas.
“We’ll ensure pensions for workers, quality education for children, and healthcare for every family. These are not luxuries-they are rights,” he asserted, condemning previous administrations for what he called discrimination against the majority.
The NCP Convener vowed to strengthen safety nets for the poor and vulnerable and addressed economic issues by pledging transparent fiscal management and investment in infrastructure, agriculture, and industry. He emphasized the need for budgets that serve the people and promised to modernize agriculture, support small businesses, and expand employment opportunities.
Nahid also underscored the importance of clean governance and accountability, vowing to root out corruption and strengthen institutions. He stressed the need for decentralization, advocating for local communities to have a voice in shaping their future.
Throughout his speech, Nahid emphasized unity across divides and called for bridging gaps between classes, regions, and communities. He pledged to protect minority rights and ensure equal opportunities, outlining specific areas of focus such as education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and youth employment.
Centering his message on discrimination and pledging inclusive development, Nahid sought to position himself as the voice of the marginalized and the architect of a fairer society. He concluded by framing the upcoming election as a choice between injustice and justice, urging citizens to work together to build a Bangladesh where every individual matters.