The National Citizens' Party (NCP) has announced a 24-point manifesto for its desired "Second Republic," or "New Bangladesh." The manifesto was unveiled by the party's convener, Nahid Islam, at a rally at Shahid Minar on Sunday evening (August 3).
"The NCP was born, our work is for a new Bangladesh, a dream that is yours," Islam said. "Your complaints, expectations, and hopes have deepened our thoughts and enriched our goals. So, exactly one year later, we stand before you at the Shahid Minar again to announce the 24-point manifesto for a new Bangladesh, our Second Republic."
Key Points of the NCP's 24-Point Manifesto:
- A new constitution and a Second Republic
- Recognition and justice for the "July Revolution"
- Reform of democracy and state institutions
- A justice-based legal system and law reform
- Service-oriented administration and anti-corruption measures
- People-friendly law enforcement
- Village parliaments and local government
- Independent media and a strong civil society
- Universal healthcare
- An educational policy for nation-building
- A revolution in research, innovation, and information technology
- Respect for all religions, communities, and ethnicities
- Women's safety, rights, and empowerment
- An equitable economy
- Youth and employment
- Diversified trade and industrialization policy
- Sustainable agriculture and food sovereignty
- Rights of workers and farmers
- National resource management
- Urbanization, transport, and housing plans
- Climate resilience and the protection of rivers and oceans
- Rights and dignity of expatriate Bangladeshis
- A pro-Bangladesh foreign policy
- National defense strategy
Following the announcement, Islam concluded by saying, "Exactly one year ago today, we took an oath at this very Shahid Minar to liberate this country from autocracy. In response to that call, we all worked together to defeat the fascist rule and reclaim authority over the country. Today, from this same Shahid Minar, we once again call upon you—let us all work together to transform this historic 24-point plan into reality and build a new Bangladesh, a Second Republic that is the dream of every citizen."
