Quickpost Editorial | Dhaka | 22 March 2025
The July National Charter has become a symbolic and strategic document in Bangladesh’s democratic struggle. Signed on 17 January 2025 by more than 30 opposition parties—including BNP, Gono Forum, and Nagorik Oikya—the Charter aims to push for electoral and constitutional reforms, restore democratic institutions, and restructure the interim government framework.
But one key political actor, the National Citizens Party (NCP), has remained on the sidelines. Despite repeatedly claiming it wants “change,” the NCP has yet to sign the Charter. This contradiction raises a serious question: Can a party that refuses to publicly commit to reform be trusted to deliver it?
Wanting votes, but avoiding clear commitment — Strategy or confusion?
NCP’s messaging has been vague. They criticize BNP’s “No Vote” campaign as “cruel,” yet avoid saying whether they support a “Yes Vote” or whether they’ll participate at all. At public rallies, they call for a “people’s government,” but never clarify through which process—ballots, boycotts, or bargaining.
This ambiguity has become a political strategy in itself. Analysts suggest NCP is trying to avoid fully aligning with larger blocs like BNP, fearing their own agenda might get overshadowed. At the same time, they also don’t want to isolate themselves. This balancing act has made their position seem opportunistic rather than principled.
NCP–Jamaat alliance: A crisis of values?
Most controversially, NCP has entered a joint political understanding with Jamaat-e-Islami, a party widely seen as far-right and deeply polarizing. This move has created internal tensions.
At least 30 central committee members reportedly sent a letter to NCP leader Nahid Islam protesting the alliance, saying it contradicts the party’s founding ideals and the spirit of the July Charter. Thirteen leaders have resigned over this issue, accusing the leadership of betraying their “centrist, neutral” identity.
This raises deeper concerns about NCP’s real political identity. How can a party that claims to represent a centrist, reformist voice align with a group like Jamaat, which has a history of opposing Bangladesh’s independence and liberal democratic values?
What happens if NCP wins?
NCP claims that the alliance is merely electoral, “not ideological.” But the resignations and protests suggest that many within the party—and possibly the voters—aren’t buying that.
If NCP does win seats in the upcoming election, it remains unclear:
- What ideology will it follow?
- Will it push reforms or revert to status quo politics?
- Will its alliance with Jamaat shape future policies?
The public deserves clarity.
Final thoughts
Politics is not just about rhetoric—it’s about taking clear positions. So far, NCP has offered no signature on reform, no clarity on their vote, and a confused alliance with a hardline group. This mixed messaging undermines public trust and makes it hard to believe they represent meaningful change.
If NCP wants to be taken seriously in the democratic movement, it must answer the key question: Where do you truly stand?
