Dhaka: National Citizen Party (NCP) Member Secretary Akhter Hossain stated that political forces resisting the ongoing reform process will be answerable to both the people and history, emphasizing that Bangladesh’s future hinges on the successful implementation of the July Charter. “Just as the Awami League bore responsibility for the failures after 1972, those who now oppose reform will also have to bear the burden of history,” he said. Akhter made these remarks at a discussion on “The Inevitable Consequences of Post-Liberation State-Building Failures: November 1975” held at the party’s central office at Banglamotor in the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Akhter called for a united political commitment to rebuild the state on democratic and constitutional foundations. He stressed the need to rise above partisan rivalries and join hands for reform, stating that the initiative is not about any single party but about the future of the Republic. He described the July Charter as “a blueprint for national renewal” and highlighted that its effective implementation depends on transparent legislation, a credible referendum, and empowering the next parliament to institutionalize constitutional changes. “Only through these steps can we fulfill the democratic aspirations that inspired the Liberation War,” he noted.
Akhter criticized the 1972 Constitution for centralizing power in one individual and stifling collective governance. He pointed out that for five decades, Bangladesh has been governed by a system that restricts freedom of thought and representative voice, citing Article 70 as a silencing force for the parliament and a catalyst for turning politics into a monopoly of party command. He emphasized that the 2024 uprising was not merely about regime change but about creating a new democratic order, asserting that the people of Bangladesh will vote ‘yes’ for reform in the coming referendum.
Akhter reaffirmed the NCP’s central mission to strengthen national institutions, safeguard judicial independence, ensure media freedom, and transform Bangladesh’s muscle-based politics into one grounded in policy and principle. He stressed that the nation can no longer afford to repeat the failures of 1972 and 1990, urging that this time, reform must be completed. He also expressed gratitude to NCP leaders and activists across the country for their tireless efforts following the party’s official registration with the Election Commission. “Many doubted whether NCP would ever be registered or whether the people were truly with us,” he said, adding, “But we have proved that the people of Bangladesh stand with the National Citizen Party. With their support, NCP will perform a miracle in the upcoming election, Inshallah.”
The discussion was attended by NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwari and senior central leaders.