The National Citizen Party (NCP) is set to unveil its upcoming manifesto, titled “New Bangladesh”, pledging to protect the rights of all citizens – particularly women, youth, and marginalised communities.
According to NCP sources, NCP will pledge for a new constitution that removes the old system, authoritarianism, family-based rule, and fascist structures, and instead forms a welfare-oriented second republic in its manifesto.
They are to promise a clear separation and balance of powers between the legislative, judicial, and executive branches of the state, while ensuring constitutional recognition of the July Declaration and the July Charter.
The young reformist-led party will launch the manifesto at the Central Shaheed Minar on Sunday, marking what leaders say is a fresh direction in Bangladesh’s political discourse.
Speaking to The Times of Bangladesh, NCP’s Senior Joint Convener Samanta Sharmin said the manifesto will reflect both the party’s ideological roots and its forward-looking agenda.
“There will be two key components in our manifesto—a historical reflection on Bangladesh’s political trajectory and the struggles that inspire us, and an outline of how the NCP envisions transforming the current movement into a process of reconstructing the state,” she said.
Sharmin explained that the party aims to shift the focus of state power from control to responsibility, saying, “As a political party, our goal is not merely to come to power but to take responsibility for the people. Our manifesto identifies critical areas of governance needing reform, and our approach will prioritise transparency and accountability.”
Among the party’s top priorities is safeguarding Bangladesh’s ethnic, gender, and cultural diversity by strengthening state institutions – such as law enforcement and the judiciary – to uphold the rights of all citizens.
“We want to ensure that no group, especially women who make up half the population, is left behind,” she added.
On accountability, Sharmin said the NCP will advocate for stronger checks and balances within the political system.
“True responsibility cannot exist without mechanisms for oversight. We believe in creating more spaces for scrutiny – like a proposed National Constitutional Council and an upper house – to prevent authoritarian drift and ensure governments truly serve the people.”
The party will also pledge to end all forms of religious and ethnic hatred.
Sharmin noted that for decades, political actors have weaponised communal divisions to weaken the nation.
“Our manifesto will commit to zero tolerance for religious bigotry – whether against Hindus, Muslims, or any other group. We’ll push for constitutional and legal reforms to guarantee equal rights for all citizens,” she said.
Climate change and green politics will also be central themes in the manifesto.
Sharmin emphasised the importance of protecting Bangladesh’s natural and environmental assets through sustainable development and engagement with international partners.
“Bangladesh possesses valuable natural and biological resources. We must ensure they are used in the interest of both the people and the environment,” she stated.
The NCP will also propose building a humane, inclusive, and accountable capital system, countering the dangers of unchecked capitalism by encouraging responsible capital growth.
The manifesto will highlight the need to revive state-owned institutions and strengthen domestic investment sectors, moving away from overdependence on the private sector.
“Many state-owned industries, such as jute and cotton mills, were shut down under previous governments. We aim to restore them to reinforce the domestic capital base,” Sharmin said.
Recognising the rise of young freelancers and entrepreneurs, the party also plans to introduce policies that lower entry barriers and support innovation.
“The spirit of the youth who stood at the forefront of this movement – including many who were martyred – will guide our path,” she added.
The manifesto will propose interest-free or low-interest loans, entrepreneur-friendly regulations, and reforms to empower young and female business leaders.
Sharmin further stated that the manifesto would remain a living document, continually evolving to reflect the aspirations of citizens and the ideals of inclusive governance.