Bangladesh will launch the National Citizen Party led by students, following the protests that led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina. Anticipating 300,000 attendees, the event will feature support from influential political figures, including interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. Key issues such as political neutrality and rising crime are central to the discourse surrounding the new party’s formation.
On Friday, Bangladesh is poised to unveil a new political party led by students who played a pivotal role in the 2024 street protests that resulted in the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government. This launch will take place at Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka and is being organized by prominent members of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement (SAD), known for its significant influence in the recent political shifts.
The new political entity, named the Jatiya Nagorik Party (National Citizen Party or NCP), anticipates approximately 300,000 attendees from every district in the country, including families of those lost during the protests. The NCP’s spokesperson confirmed that prominent invitations had been extended to leaders from various political factions, highlighting the inclusive nature of the event.
This initiative has the support of the interim Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, who succeeded Sheikh Hasina after the protests. NCP leaders have indicated that Yunus has been invited to attend the party’s official launch. Key political figures, including Khaleda Zia, Tarique Rahman, and various party leaders from both the left and right, may also participate.
Some members of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) have expressed doubt regarding the neutrality of Yunus’s administration, particularly after his endorsement of the student-led party. Notably, Nahid Islam, an adviser in the interim administration, has come under scrutiny for resigning to lead the new party amid allegations of undue advantages.
Recent reports from the UN have highlighted the violent repercussions of the protests, with nearly 1,400 casualties reported during the recent unrest. The situation escalated further when protesters intensified their dissent, resulting in significant property damage to Awami League leaders’ homes during the unrest that began in early February.
In response to the rising crime rates linked to unrest, Bangladeshi security forces have initiated a crackdown termed ‘Operation Devil Hunt,’ leading to over 8,600 arrests over a two-week period. Police have indicated a notable increase in robbery incidents, particularly in Dhaka, signaling growing public safety concerns.
The launch of the National Citizen Party marks a significant development in Bangladesh’s political landscape, following the recent upheaval against former Prime Minister Hasina. With broad participation expected and high-profile endorsements, this event symbolizes a shift toward student-led political representation. As concerns over public safety and political integrity continue, the role of the new party in upcoming elections will be crucial in shaping the country’s future.
Original Source: kashmirobserver.net
