The National Citizen Party (NCP) has called for major reforms to constitutional bodies before the next national election, demanding that proposed changes be enacted swiftly and transparently.
Speaking at a street rally in Mymensingh city on Monday, Nahid Islam, convener of the NCP, said, “The proposed reforms to constitutional institutions such as the BPSC, ACC, Comptroller and Auditor General, and ombudsman must be implemented.” His remarks came during the party’s ongoing “July March to Build the Nation.”
He argued that without clear reform and oversight, these bodies risk losing public trust. “We have already stated that a constitutional committee must be formed to ensure neutral appointments to these bodies. We expect a neutral administration, neutral police, and a neutral judiciary,” Nahid told a crowd gathered near the Town Hall square.
That demand echoes earlier discussions held by the National Consensus Commission, which has been meeting with various political groups since early July.
Nahid described the party’s July march as part of a broader movement for systemic reform. “We have not yet achieved the Bangladesh we aspire to. But if the people stand with us, we can build the nation we envision,” he said.
He also pointed to the July Charter, a political framework being discussed in recent weeks among parties and civil society groups, saying, “The National Consensus Commission has said there will be a July Charter. We have also said that it must be finalized by August 5. We are united in our demand. Before that, on August 3, the NCP will hold a grand rally in Dhaka.”
The NCP’s message included direct instructions to its members. “Stand by the people, solve their problems. Build a social movement against corruption, terrorism, and extortion,” Nahid said.
The rally also featured remarks from Hasnat Abdullah, chief organizer (south) of the party. He took aim at corruption within the political sphere. “We speak out against extortion. We want a new political arrangement. But you want extortion. We will not tolerate these things,” he said.
He added a pointed warning: “The NCP will not become a safe haven for extortionists.”
What we saw on Monday is part of a bigger trend: smaller parties are trying to make their voices heard in these uncertain political times. A lot of what they want is the same stuff being discussed in formal meetings in Dhaka. The difference is, the tone from the streets is much tougher and feels like time is running out.
The upcoming general election is putting everyone under pressure. But it’s anyone’s guess if these proposed reforms will ever be put into action or if they’re all just talk.
