DHAKA: Thousands of Bangladeshis once flocked to support the student-led National Citizen Party (NCP), which emerged after protests toppled long-time leader Sheikh Hasina. However, the party now struggles to translate its street power into votes ahead of February elections.

Weak Support in Polls

The NCP faces entrenched rivals with strong networks. Opinion polls show the party in third place with just 6% support. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leads with 30%, while Jamaat-e-Islami sits at 26%.

Chief Nahid Islam acknowledges, “Our organization is weak because we haven’t had enough time to build it. We are aware of this, but we are still taking on the challenge.”

Alliance Talks

Leaders admit they are holding talks with BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami to improve their chances. “If we stand independently, there is a chance we may not win even one seat,” said a senior NCP leader. Analysts warn, however, that an alliance may dilute the party’s revolutionary image.

Challenges Within

The NCP faces scarce funds and limited structure. Members rely on full-time jobs, small donations, and crowdfunding. Some young leaders, like Hasnat Abdullah, campaign door-to-door. “I tell people a leader’s job is not to give money but to ensure government funds are properly used,” he said.

Graft accusations, which the party denies, have also affected its image.

Striving for Change

Despite setbacks, some young voters still support the party for its push for equality and reform. The NCP has interviewed over 1,000 ordinary citizens to become candidates. They aim to open politics beyond powerful families.

Doctor Tasnim Jara said, “We want to give power back to ordinary people and open up politics, not keep it confined to elites.”

Looking Ahead

BNP and Jamaat leaders also recognize the importance of youth involvement. “The young people are the future of politics, so engaging them is crucial,” said BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. NCP leaders emphasize that their focus extends beyond the next election, aiming for long-term reform.

People wave flags during celebrations marking the one-year anniversary of student-led protests that led to the ousting of Bangladeshi then-PM Sheikh Hasina, at Manik Mia Avenue, outside the parliament building, in Dhaka, Bangladesh on August 5, 2025. — Reuters

Win or lose, the NCP believes its participation introduces new energy and ideas into Bangladeshi politics. “Just by taking part in the election, we are offering something new,” said Abdullah, a party leader.https://globiscope.com

Child deaths will rise this year as aid cuts reverse progress, says Gates