We will not let Bangladesh return to pre-5 August state: Nahid

National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam today (16 December) vowed that Bangladesh would never return to the situation before 5 August 2024 and pledged to lead the country on the path of reform.

Speaking at the National Memorial this morning, Nahid said 16 December marks the day in 1971 when Pakistani forces surrendered, and Bangladesh's independence was solidified. 

He said the people of the newly independent nation had committed themselves to live with equality, human dignity, and social justice.

"The people of this land have fought for independence, human dignity, and sovereignty for generations. From 1947 to 1971, the country experienced massive struggles, culminating in the liberation movement when youth, ordinary citizens, and farmers all joined the fight for freedom," he added.

Nahid Islam paid tribute to the freedom fighters, martyrs, and valiant women whose sacrifices made independence possible. He said that although Bangladesh gained freedom, over the past 54 years the people have been repeatedly betrayed. Equality, human dignity, and social justice have not been ensured, and fascism has taken root.

NCP convener Nahid Islam and other NCP leaders lay wreaths at the National Martyrs’ Memorial on 16 December 2025, paying tribute to 1971 freedom fighters. Photo: Sajjad Hossain Shimul/TBS

He added that the 2024's July uprising was a continuation of the historical struggle. He called on the people to remain vigilant and united to ensure Bangladesh continues to progress on the path of reform.

Nahid Islam criticised the government for failing to arrest those responsible for the Osman Hadi attack, stressing that citizens must ensure their own safety when authorities fail.

He said that in the upcoming election, NCP candidates will campaign in favour of reform. He concluded by calling for unity against the traitors of 1971 and 2024 and reaffirmed that Bangladesh's future lies in reform, democracy, and progress.