NCP Convener Nahid Islam speaking in a street rally in Mohammadpur area of the capital. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, May 29, 2025 (BSS) – National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam today said those who helped corrupt individuals flee the country must be brought to justice.

“We have witnessed 17 years of promises of development, but in true sense, this development never reached the rickshaw pullers or the working class. Instead, it benefited a selected group of corrupt individuals, elites, and mafias. These people must be held accountable and those who facilitated their escape,” said Nahid Islam.

He was addressing a street rally and leaflet distribution campaign with party activists and leaders in the Mohammadpur area of the capital in the afternoon.

Rejecting the politics of extortion and violence, the NCP leader urged the public to stand against those who practice unhealthy politics.

“We want a future Bangladesh where every citizen enjoys the right to education, employment and healthcare. Unfortunately, corruption affects all aspects of life — from school admissions to getting medical services to securing a job. Without the support of influential relatives, young people can’t even hope for employment,” he said.

Referring to the 2024 July Uprising, Nahid said the movement was born out of frustration with a fascist regime that failed to ensure basic rights like education and jobs.

“Our students and youths took to the streets demanding their legitimate rights. Many of them had to sacrifice their lives for it. In Mohammadpur and elsewhere in Dhaka, these streets have been stained with the blood of our brothers and sisters,” he said.

He added, “Inspired by the sacrifices of our martyrs, we too were ready to lay down our lives. Today, we hope that our new generation will no longer have to fight and die in the streets for their rights. But history shows us that we have had to rise again and again.”

Calling for solidarity, he said, “Let this uprising be the one that brings success. Let us all work together to realize the dreams and aspirations of our martyrs.”

Addressing the grassroots activists involved in the movement against inequality, Nahid urged them to continue standing with the people. “Listen to the citizens’ problems. Be a part of the solution,” he said.

The NCP leader emphasized that the party was born from the July Uprising, with the vision of building a just, inclusive and equitable Bangladesh.

“We have sacrificed our lives for a new Bangladesh — a country without discrimination, where justice prevails, where the dignity and rights of every citizen are respected,” he said, adding, “NCP will continue its struggle for economic justice and real development. We invite all of you to join us in this journey.”