The Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to transforming Bangladesh into a just and democratic nation, declaring it will not accept any compromise on the country’s rebuilding after the recent toppling of what it calls a 15-year fascist regime.
Speaking at a spirited street rally at the Madrasa intersection in Natore on Monday, NCP Convener Nahid Islam underscored that removing authoritarian rule was only the beginning. “We have ousted fascism through unity. Now, our resolute mission is to rebuild the country. On this, there will be no compromise,” he told a crowd of supporters.
The rally was part of the party’s month-long “July March to Build the Nation,” a campaign launched on July 1 that spans all 64 districts, demanding justice, sweeping reforms, and a new constitution. Monday marked the seventh day of their march, which began at Station Bazar and wound through Natore’s streets.
Highlighting the core aspirations of the movement, Nahid said, “The dream behind our uprising was to create a corruption-free and discrimination-free nation. Sadly, after August 5, many abandoned that dream. But just as we ended fascism through collective strength, we can also build a new Bangladesh together.”
The NCP leader also addressed reports of local obstructions faced by party activists in Natore, cautioning that those who previously tore down banners and disrupted gatherings would find no place in the Bangladesh they envision.
Turning to the party’s broader strategy, Nahid Islam made clear that the NCP’s demands precede any discussion on the timing of national elections. “Justice and reforms before the polls — that is our sole demand. We did not make any statement about election schedules,” he told reporters earlier at Parjatan Motel in Rajshahi.
He called on the government to formally adopt the “July Charter,” which the NCP believes should serve as the foundation for drafting a new electoral framework. “If that does not happen, we will once again take to the streets,” he warned.
As part of this push, the party plans to unveil its manifesto on August 3 at Dhaka’s Shaheed Minar. According to Nahid, the manifesto will lay out a vision for Bangladesh’s economic, political, social, and cultural liberation. “It will chart the course for a new Bangladesh. We remain steadfast on the streets, fighting for your rights,” he said.
Throughout their march from Rajshahi to Sirajganj via Natore, NCP leaders have been holding street-corner meetings to reinforce their calls for constitutional reforms and to honor what they describe as the sacrifices of brave citizens who led the July mass uprising.
“Our journey will not end here. We carry the July Declaration, the July Charter, and our collective dream of a discrimination-free Bangladesh to every district. We took to the streets with dreams and courage, and we are still here,” Nahid declared.
