Dhaka: Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is facing challenges in fully restoring public safety, making the prospect of holding a general election this year uncertain, according to Nahid Islam, the leader of the newly launched National Citizens' Party (NCP).
Islam, a former student leader and government adviser, expressed concerns about the law enforcement situation, saying that while there have been some short-term reforms, they have not met expectations. "Given the current state of law and order, I do not believe it is feasible to conduct a national election," the 26-year-old politician said in his first interview as NCP leader.
His remarks mark the first major challenge to Yunus' proposed election timeline, which suggests voting by the end of 2025. Analysts believe that Islam’s youth-driven party could introduce a new dynamic to Bangladesh’s political landscape, traditionally dominated by the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
The country has seen continued unrest since last year’s mass protests, which led to the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Violent incidents, including attacks on symbols of Hasina’s administration and clashes between student groups, have fueled tensions. There have also been reports of targeted attacks against religious minorities, though the government has downplayed their extent.
Islam stated that the NCP, founded only last week, is prepared to participate in elections but emphasized that a national consensus must first be reached on the 'Proclamation of the July Revolution'—a proposed charter reflecting the aspirations of Bangladeshis and paying tribute to the 1,000 people who lost their lives in last year’s upheaval.
"If an agreement on this proclamation is reached within a month, elections can be held immediately. However, if it takes longer, the voting should be postponed," he explained.
The NCP leader also revealed that wealthy individuals across the country are financially supporting the party, which plans to crowdfund for a new office and establish an election fund soon.
