NRC calls for constituent assembly polls by June, announces 11-point agenda

Staff Reporter Published: 29 January 2025, 04:53 PM
NRC calls for constituent assembly polls by June, announces 11-point agenda
National Revolutionary Council holds a press conference at National Press Club in Dhaka on Wednesday. -- Jago News Photo

The National Revolutionary Council (NRC), a newly formed political party, has demanded the holding of Constituent Assembly elections by June 2025 and the drafting of a new constitution by January 2026, replacing the existing one to transform Bangladesh into a true people's state.

The party argues that forming a Constituent Assembly is essential to prevent foreign powers and remnants of fascist elements from exploiting the current political vacuum. 

It warned of the risks of external interference and internal subversion by factions of the old regime in the absence of genuine people's representation. The NRC also cautioned that even friendly nations could fall prey to lobbyists' manipulations if the situation persists.

However, the NRC opposes holding general elections prematurely, stating that without necessary reforms, corrupt forces within major political parties could regain power, derailing progress toward meaningful change.

"The Constituent Assembly elections are the only viable solution," said Anisur Rahman, the NRC's political head, during a press conference at the National Press Club on Wednesday. 

"The Constituent Assembly elections will swiftly establish an elected authority, addressing concerns about the potential dominance of the BNP, which is likely to be the major party in the assembly. It will also serve as a litmus test for the BNP's commitment to reform, the constitution, and the rights of the people," he said.

To build broad support for its vision, the NRC plans to engage in extensive dialogue with stakeholders, including the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, and the National Citizens Committee. The party expressed optimism that these groups would recognize the necessity of Constituent Assembly elections.

At the press conference, the NRC unveiled an ambitious 11-point agenda aimed at transforming Bangladesh into a people's democratic state. To rally public support, the party has devised a robust campaign strategy, including nationwide processions in February and March, divisional and metropolitan citizen rallies, opinion exchange meetings with political parties, professional organizations, and labor unions, street meetings in major cities, and seminars across the country. The movement's progress will be periodically assessed, with efforts intensified as needed.

The NRC criticised the interim government and certain student factions for failing to uphold the ideals of the July Revolution, calling for a renewed spirit aligned with the realities of the past six months. It demanded the immediate repeal of the 1972 Constitution, the removal of President Shahabuddin Chuppu, and the dissolution of the current advisory government. Instead, the party advocates for a revolutionary government led by Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus, followed by the drafting of a new constitution by January 2026 and national elections within three months.

Key proposals by the NRC:

Justice and Accountability: Establish special tribunals and forces to prosecute those responsible for the July genocide, Shapla and Pilkhana massacres, and killings of BNP-Jamaat leaders. Dismiss implicated officials and ban fascist entities.

Compensation and Rehabilitation: Provide financial assistance and medical care to victims' families and injured individuals.

Constituent Assembly Formation: Ensure inclusive representation, including martyrs' family members, students, citizens, and nominees by Dr Yunus.

National Security and Economic Reforms: Create a National Security Council under Dr. Yunus and Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman to safeguard national interests and restructure security forces. Form a National Economic Council to stimulate growth, recover illicit funds, and stabilize commodity prices.

Education and Healthcare Overhaul: Introduce a modern education system, enhance teacher remuneration, offer free higher education, and improve housing for university students. Make healthcare universally accessible, establish specialized hospitals, and provide free treatment for serious diseases.

Labour Rights and Welfare: Implement a universal hourly wage, offer interest-free employment loans, and construct worker housing and educational facilities.