NCP unveils 24-point ‘New Bangladesh’ manifesto

National Citizen Party (NCP) has launched its 24-point manifesto for a "New Bangladesh," advocating for a "Second Republic" with a new constitution.

NCP Convener Nahid Islam made the announcement of the manifesto at a rally at Central Shaheed Minar on Sunday.

Key points include recognizing last year’s July uprising and ensuring justice for victims. It proposes overhauling the democratic framework, state institutions, and legal system to establish a justice-driven judiciary.

The NCP also calls for people-centric law enforcement, village parliaments, and empowered local governments.

The manifesto stresses press freedom, a dynamic civil society, universal healthcare, and an inclusive education system to drive national progress. It prioritises research, innovation, digital transformation, respect for religion, community, and nationality, and the empowerment, safety, and rights of women.

Economically, the NCP envisions a human-focused, welfare-driven model, addressing youth unemployment, promoting diversified trade and industrialization, and securing food security and farmers' and workers' rights.

Additional pledges include sustainable resource use, planned urban development, modern transportation, climate resilience, river and ocean conservation, protecting Bangladeshis abroad, a Bangladesh-first foreign policy, and a robust defense strategy.