Emergence of Student-Led Political Party in Bangladesh Amidst Unrest

Bangladesh will see the launch of a new political party, the National Citizen Party (NCP), on Friday, led by student activists who played a key role in protests that resulted in the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. An estimated 300,000 supporters, including families of protest victims, are expected to attend the opening ceremony, set for Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka. The party has gained the support of interim leader Muhammad Yunus, despite concerns about political neutrality.

On Friday, Bangladesh will witness the inauguration of a new political party led by students, following their pivotal role in toppling former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League administration during the 2024 street protests. This new party, named ‘Jatiya Nagorik Party’ (National Citizen Party or NCP), is being spearheaded by prominent figures from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, also known as Students Against Discrimination (SAD).

A large gathering is anticipated at the launch event, set to take place at Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka, with around 300,000 attendees expected, including students from all 64 districts and the families of those who lost their lives during the mass protests last year. A spokesperson for the party mentioned that they have invited major political party leaders to the event.

The NCP has garnered the support of Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of the interim government, who is also a nominee of the SAD movement since assuming office in August 2024. Yunus has been invited to attend the launch ceremony, along with other notable political figures such as Khaleda Zia, the chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and leaders from various Islamic and political groups.

Despite the excitement surrounding its inception, concerns about the neutrality of Yunus’ interim government remain, particularly as it coincides with the upcoming general elections later this year. Criticism has emerged regarding the establishment of the NCP utilizing the advantages of having members who were previously part of the government.

In recent months, unrest in Bangladesh has escalated significantly, culminating in various protests and violent incidents that have resulted in hundreds of casualties. Reports indicate that police actions from the uprising have claimed nearly 1,400 lives, prompting a widespread crackdown on suspected groups associated with the previous regime. Amid these developments, the safety and security situation in Dhaka has reached alarming levels, with rising crime rates contributing to the urgency for political change.

The launch of the NCP highlights the active role of youth in Bangladeshi politics, particularly in the wake of significant unrest and a governmental shift following the ousting of Sheikh Hasina. As the new party prepares for its inauguration, it faces scrutiny regarding its neutrality and operations within the interim government framework. With historical precedents of mass movements marking political landscapes, the upcoming general elections will be critical in determining the future trajectory of governance in Bangladesh.

Original Source: kashmirobserver.net