NCP to Sign July Charter if Consensus Commission Recommendations Are Incorporated: Nahid Islam

NCP to Sign July Charter if Reforms Incorporated: Nahid Islam

The National Citizen Party (NCP) has announced that it will sign the July Charter only after the National Consensus Commission’s recommendations, particularly those relating to constitutional reforms and the removal of the “note of dissent” clause in the July Charter Implementation Order, are formally incorporated.

Speaking to reporters on 28 October during leadership selection activities for NCP’s Rajshahi city and district convening committees, NCP Convener Nahid Islam said the party’s stance is clear: reforms must be legally and democratically validated before endorsement.

“People Will Decide Through a Referendum”

Nahid Islam stated that there will be no “note of dissent” in the implementation order once consensus is reached.

“Whatever consensus the Commission achieves regarding constitutional reforms will be put to a referendum. The people will decide, and it must be determined whether these matters are incorporated into the constitution,” he said.

He further added that the order must receive formal approval from Prof Muhammad Yunus under the legitimacy of the July Uprising, reaffirming NCP’s demand for public ratification of major reform measures.

NCP Rejects Alliance with Anti-Reform Parties

Addressing speculation about election coalitions, Nahid Islam clarified that the NCP has no plans to form an alliance with any political party that opposes reforms or carries historical controversies.

“We will not join hands with parties standing against reform or democratic accountability,” he emphasized.

He also urged the government to announce a roadmap for trials related to the July Uprising, stressing that the judicial process involving military personnel must continue transparently.

No Return to Caretaker System

Reiterating his party’s position on electoral administration, Nahid said there will be no return to the previous caretaker government system.

“The next national election will be held under the leadership of Prof Yunus,” he declared.

Criticism of Election Commission Over ‘Shapla’ Symbol

The NCP convener also criticised the Election Commission (EC) for its decision to deny the party the “Shapla” (Water Lily) election symbol, calling it “arbitrary and politically motivated.”

“If we have to achieve the Shapla symbol politically, we will do so through movements on the streets,” Nahid warned.

He alleged that the EC’s decision was an attempt to obstruct NCP’s political and electoral activities, describing it as a reflection of bias against reformist parties.

Call for Proportional Representation

Concluding his remarks, Nahid Islam said the NCP seeks a proportional representation system in the upper chamber to ensure fairness and inclusion in Bangladesh’s parliamentary structure.

He also warned of “fascist conspiracies” surrounding the upcoming elections and called for vigilance to safeguard the democratic gains of the July Uprising.