No election acceptable without judicial reform: Nahid Islam

The people of Bangladesh will not accept any national election without comprehensive judicial reforms, National Citizen Party (NCP) Convenor Nahid Islam said today (11 July).

"We demand reforms, justice, and elections all at once. Those pushing for elections without ensuring judicial reform are part of a conspiracy to delay and undermine true democratic processes," he said while addressing a rally in Jashore city's Zero Point area.

The rally is part of NCP's ongoing programme 'Desh Gorte July Padayatra' (July Walkathon for Building the Nation).

Nahid said the NCP continues to lead the real struggle for free and fair elections and the people's right to vote. "We brought independence, and now we will bring reform. We will safeguard our sovereignty."

Criticising the current state of government institutions, the NCP leader noted, "In the 54 years since independence, Bangladesh's state and constitutional institutions have not been allowed to stand independently. All have been politicised. We will not allow further politicisation."

He also called for a professional and non-partisan police force that serves the public rather than political interests.

"Promotions should be based on merit, not party loyalty," Nahid said, adding that the Bangladesh Army must strengthen national defence under a people-centric protection strategy.

Highlighting the NCP's broader vision, Nahid said, "We aim to build a welfare state based on justice. We want a country where those who stand for justice and against corruption are protected, and where equal rights are guaranteed for all segments of society."

The rally was moderated by the party's Chief Coordinator (northern region) Sarjis Alam.

Earlier in the day, NCP's Jashore district unit organised a separate views-exchange meeting at a local hotel conference room.