NCP Stands Apart from the Reform Charter, Tightening Space in Bangladesh Politics

NCP’s Independent Path Amid Reform Talks

The NCP, launched in February 2025, has positioned itself as the voice of the youth and the “second republic” agenda in Bangladesh.

On 17 October 2025, most major political parties in Bangladesh signed a wide-ranging reform proposal known as the “July Charter”, aimed at restructuring governance, the electoral process and judiciary ahead of the national elections in February 2026.

However, the NCP boycotted the ceremony, citing the reform lacked legally binding enforcement mechanisms and true accountability for past injustices.

Why the boycott?

The NCP argues that simply signing reforms without strong enforcement or binding laws will not guarantee change. As NCP convener Nahid Islam declared: “The signing … does not constitute national unity.”
The party contends that those killed or injured in the 2024 uprising must receive justice under any new framework.
The decision underscores their strategy of staying independent, refusing to join existing alliances (as affirmed earlier in September 2025).

Implications

By standing apart, the NCP is staking a claim as a distinct alternative in Bangladesh’s crowded political field. But this stance also means fewer allies in negotiations and reform discussions, raising questions about influence and viability.

Internal Strains and External Challenges

The NCP is still in its infancy, but already facing internal and external pressures.

Internal dissent

In August 2025, fifteen leaders—including joint coordinators—resigned from a district committee of the NCP, protesting “an incompetent, unethical … chief coordinator”.

Such resignations point to structural instability and the challenge of rapidly building party organisation from ground up while maintaining discipline and cohesion.

Rally disruptions & external conflict

At one juncture, the NCP’s planned rallies in the Cox’s Bazar region were cancelled following protests by members of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in reaction to controversial remarks by one of the NCP leaders.

Additionally, NCP leaders have publicly alleged that the Anti‑Corruption Commission demanded bribes from them — which the ACC denies.

These incidents reflect the rough terrain of Bangladeshi politics: new parties must contend with entrenched forces, hostile responses, and heavy scrutiny.

The Manifesto for a “Second Republic”

On 3 August 2025, the NCP unveiled a 24-point manifesto calling for radical reform: a new constitution drafted by a constituent assembly, recognition of the 2024 uprising, dissolution or overhaul of previous institutions, and strengthening of youth and citizen voices.

Key highlights:

A “Second Republic” aimed at resetting Bangladesh’s political system.
A new constitution to replace the perceived legacy politics.
Elevating younger leadership, citizen oversight and participatory governance.

This bold agenda aligns with the NCP’s narrative of being a break from dynastic politics and old-era parties.

What to Watch Going Forward

Electoral strategy and alliances – Will the NCP contest independently, or seek partners? Their refusal to join alliances so far may limit reach but preserve independence.
Implementation credibility – With ambitious manifesto promises, delivery will be key to building trust among voters.
Navigating reform talks – Exclusion from the Charter signing may isolate the NCP in reform implementation, unless they negotiate back in.
Internal consolidation – The early resignations suggest that organisational stability is a work in progress; how the leadership handles this will matter.
Public perception – As a youth-led party with reform credentials, the NCP attracts attention — but any missteps or organisational chaos could undermine its image as a credible alternative.

Conclusion

The NCP faces an uphill battle: a fresh party, ambitious agenda, and complex political environment. By rejecting the reform charter and insisting on deeper structural change, it has staked a bold, albeit risky, position. Whether this translates into electoral success remains to be seen — but for now, the party is one of the most intriguing variables in Bangladesh’s shifting political landscape.