New Constitution and Justice Demanded at Joypurhat Rally
Neglected Joypurhat to Be Included in July Declaration, Says NCP Leader

Joypurhat, July 5, 2025 (BSS): The National Citizen Party (NCP) has pledged to include the voice of the neglected Joypurhat district in its upcoming July Declaration, set to be unveiled on August 3 at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka. NCP Convener Nahid Islam made this announcement while addressing a public rally at Shaheed Dr. Abul Kashem Moydan in Joypurhat.

Speaking at the event organized by the district chapter of NCP, Nahid Islam praised those who protested against what he described as the authoritarian rule of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. “We launched the July Movement to end dictatorship, change power, and remove the influence of mafias. But even after a year, no real change has come,” he said. “We want to build a new Bangladesh—free from fascism and injustice. We won’t allow the other tyrant to rise.”

He emphasized the importance to be free and get freedom, noting that defending it is even harder than achieving it. “We must remain alert so that our freedom is not lost again. That’s why NCP was formed—to ensure the right to food, education, and proper healthcare for all.”

The rally was chaired by district coordinator Firoz Alamgir and also featured speeches from regional organizers Sarjis Alam (North), Hasnat Abdullah (South), NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, and Joint Convener Monira Parvin.

Hasnat Abdullah voiced strong criticism of corruption and nepotism. “There’s no space now for corruption or family-centered leadership,” he said. “We know who runs the ruling party’s businesses. We hear stories about Sheikh Hasina suddenly re-entering from across the border. Even Indian PM Modi sometimes pushes people into Bangladesh. If Hasina is pushed in, we’ll deal with her.”

He added that those involved in the so-called midnight election are now being publicly shamed. “In our party, only the competent will be chosen as leaders,” he declared.

The rally ended with renewed calls for justice, reform, and a new constitution to shape a fair and equal Bangladesh.

Fresh Push for Local Polls Before National Election

Political Strategy or Genuine Concern?

The demand to hold LG elections before national elections has resurfaced in Bangladesh’s political landscape. Earlier this year, debates over election sequencing were prominent but faded under BNP’s strong opposition.

BNP, which insists on national elections first, remains silent on the revived demand. Currently, BNP is focused on ensuring the national polls are completed by December, rallying allies to pressure the interim government.

On 23 April, Islami Andolan Bangladesh and Gono Odhikar Parishad met and agreed that local polls should come first. Their leaders cited public suffering due to the absence of local representatives and argued that local elections would bring immediate relief. They also mentioned the need for reforms and broader consensus before national elections.

Meanwhile, leaders from the new National Citizen Party (NCP) echoed similar views, although the party has no official statement yet.

Earlier in January and February, local elections were a hot topic. Reports indicated that outside Dhaka, the public strongly favored local polls first. However, due to BNP’s firm opposition and lack of government follow-through, discussions cooled down.

The LG Reform Commission recently submitted its final report but avoided recommending an election sequence. They emphasized the importance of both elections and suggested building a political consensus.

Political observers believe that early local elections could lead to disorder and delay national polls, something BNP wants to avoid. BNP also fears internal divisions at the grassroots level, which could weaken its position ahead of national elections.

On the other hand, parties pushing for local elections believe it would enhance their grassroots presence and hurt BNP’s dominance.

Although Islami Andolan claims it had consistently supported local polls first, leaders admit there is no formal alliance among like-minded parties. They argue that with political momentum shifting, it is the right time to raise the issue again.

Ilias Kanchan Launches New Political Party: People’s Party Bangladesh
Focus on justice, equality, and democratic values

Veteran actor and long-time road safety activist Ilias Kanchan has officially launched a new political party named People’s Party Bangladesh.

Ilias Kanchan, also the founder of the Nirapad Sarak Chai movement, will serve as the party’s chairman. Renowned journalist and former Jatiya Press Club president, Shaukat Mahmood, has been named the secretary general.

The party introduced its 27-member central committee and announced plans to apply for official registration with the Election Commission soon. Kanchan shared his motivation for entering politics, stating that despite working for over 30 years to promote road safety, no major change happened due to a lack of political will. Now, he believes real change needs state cooperation and political involvement.

“We want to build a country based on justice,” said Kanchan. “I aim to serve the people with the same honesty I’ve shown through my road safety campaign.”

He revealed that the party was formed after two to three years of discussions and public engagement. Its constitution, flag, electoral symbol, and logo will soon be submitted for registration. Addressing rumors, Shaukat denied any personal political motives. He also disclosed past pressure from authorities, including being detained and facing 70 legal cases.

The People’s Party Bangladesh sets out to create a just and inclusive society, rooted in equality and human dignity, through active participation in the country’s political landscape.