Nahid criticises misinterpretation of July Movement

Nahid Islam, Convener of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP), has expressed concern that some participants of the July mass uprising are now portraying the movement as a mere “power shift” rather than a transformative people's revolution.

“Our politics and our very existence are rooted in the July uprising. The more we embrace July, the further we can progress,” Nahid said. “It is unfortunate that some who were part of that uprising now view it as a regime change. The NCP strongly disagrees with this interpretation.”

He made the remarks on Friday while addressing the Introduction and General Meeting of the NCP’s youth wing, Jatiya Juboshokti, held at a hotel in Dhanmondi, Dhaka, according to local media.

Nahid stressed that the movement’s original aim was fundamental reform, not a reshuffling of power under the old system. “We demanded structural reform. But they see July as a regime change and cling to the old constitution in their quest for power. That is where we draw the line,” he added. “What we need now is an organised force.”

Cautioning about recent developments in the country, Nahid said, “There are efforts underway to destabilise the nation. We must not fall into that trap. Instead, we must remain united. The youth must take the lead in implementing the July Declaration. Whatever the obstacles, we will face them head-on.”

He also warned that while the country seeks systemic reform, some young leaders appear to be driven by ambition for power. “In this situation, uniting the patriotic youth will be one of our main goals. They will defend the nation and fight for the new republic,” Nahid declared, urging the youth to embody patriotism and core national values.

He further called on Jatiya Juboshokti to honour the martyrs and injured of the July uprising by ensuring the implementation of the movement's declaration.

Also speaking at the event, NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary emphasised that youth politics must include participation from all sectors, especially women and the religious community. He outlined the organisation's roadmap and said the youth must act as the “vanguard of the state,” working to expand employment and promote both local and expatriate entrepreneurship.

Hasnat Abdullah, NCP’s chief organiser for the southern region, called for unity in discarding the current constitution and working toward drafting a new one. “We must promote pro-people and welfare-driven politics and bring capable individuals into the political fold,” he said.

Advocate Tarikul Islam, Convener of Jatiya Juboshokti, stated, “There’s little to show for 53 years of traditional youth politics. We are determined to bring positive change to Bangladesh's political landscape.”

Member Secretary Dr. Zahedul Islam described the youth wing as the NCP’s future power base. “We have begun working to organize young people into a new political platform,” he said.

Chief Organiser Engineer Farhad Sohel said that the organisational efficiency and on-the-ground outreach of Jatiya Juboshokti will lead to a more action-oriented political structure.

The meeting concluded with a resolution that members will contribute a one-time registration fee along with monthly dues to fund the organisation’s operations. A strategic action plan was also adopted, and guidance was provided to regional organisers.