‘Coalition with Jamaat won’t lead to a theocratic state’: Nahid Islam

Interview/Nahid Islam, convener, National Citizen Party

Nahid Islam finds himself in a difficult position. As convener of the National Citizen Party, Bangladesh’s youngest political formation, he has projected the NCP as a reformist force challenging the entrenched political order. Yet, for electoral reasons, the party has entered into an alliance with the Jamaat-e-Islami and other Islamic groups. In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, the 27-year-old leader says electoral arrangements are essential not only for survival in competitive politics, but also to secure a foothold in parliament. He believes that even limited representation can push forward the reforms envisioned by the July 2024 student-led protests.

What are the prospects of the Jamaat–NCP alliance in the upcoming elections?

We are contesting 30 seats as part of the alliance. It is difficult to predict how many seats the NCP will win because we have no prior election experience and ours is a new party. However, we are hopeful that the NCP and the coalition will perform well and that the election will be competitive. 

Is this alliance purely electoral, or does it have an ideological basis?

The coming together is primarily for the election, involving seat-based adjustments. However, we do have some common issues. One major agenda is reform after the revolution. A consensus commission has been formed for this, and there will be a referendum. We will campaign for the ‘yes’ vote. If we form the government, we will jointly implement the reform proposals. Reform is one of our main agendas. The second is anti-corruption and good governance. Another is the question of sovereignty and opposing hegemony, particularly from neighbouring countries. We want a dignified and sovereign foreign policy, and on these issues we share a common programme.

If your alliance comes to power, will it lead to a theocratic state?

The Jamaat has stated that it will remain within liberal policies. If an alliance government is formed, it will not lead to a theocratic state. It will be a democratic government and will build a democratic Bangladesh. Issues of women and minorities will definitely be addressed. This is our basic commitment and is part of the NCP’s core inclusive ideology.

How do you respond to concerns about lack of governing experience?

People in Bangladesh want new and young leadership. The so-called experienced parties, like the BNP, did not deliver very good governance in the past. People want to see something different. 

There is criticism that the Jamaat represents extreme right ideology. How do you address concerns about minorities?

The alliance has not yet reached a concrete stage. Discussions are ongoing about electoral cooperation and post-election government formation. If needed, this will be reflected in the manifesto. Currently, we have separate manifestos. The Jamaat has shifted significantly from its earlier position and has stated that it will not form a government based on its old core ideology. They are talking about inclusivity and even a national government. However, if our core positions, especially on women and minorities, are compromised, the alliance will not continue.

Did the killing of Osman Hadi influence the NCP’s decision to pursue a broader alliance?

After Osman Hadi’s killing, we took this decision because we saw hegemonic forces conspiring in Bangladesh and targeting July leaders through killings. Initially, we wanted to contest independently, but confronting these forces has become more urgent than maintaining ideological isolation. 

How do you explain the alliance to supporters who expected independent politics from the NCP?

This is an electoral alliance made out of practical necessity. If we can implement our agendas with our allies, it will benefit the nation. If our ideological position is fully compromised, we will reconsider. But right now, it is essential for July forces to enter parliament and survive in electoral politics.

Has there been internal disagreement within the NCP over this decision?

The decision has majority support within the party. Some people disagreed. Around 10 to 12 people left the party, believing the decision conflicted with their principles. We respect their choice and still welcome them. This was a collective decision taken by a majority, and most members support it.

There are former NCP leaders who have chosen to run independently.

We wish them well. July leaders do not necessarily need to form a single party. If they want to stand independently, they can. 

You have been close to Professor Muhammad Yunus. How do you assess the interim government’s performance?

One major achievement is initiating the reform referendum. The government tried to stabilise the economy but failed in law and order and managing public expectations. Still, the nation will always be grateful to Professor Yunus for leading during a crisis. Expectations were high and not fully met. Old establishments and elite oligarchic forces have reorganised quickly and are resisting reform. They want to preserve the old system. This fight must continue through democratic means and for economic justice.

If the BNP forms the next government, what will be the NCP’s position?

We will accept any government formed through the people’s mandate. If the reform referendum passes and the government implements it, we will cooperate for stability. Institutions are broken and must be rebuilt. Unity is more important than who is in power.

How do you view future relations with India?

We want a friendly and working relationship with India, but India must change its Bangladesh policy. Border killings, water-sharing disputes and political interference must stop. Seeking Sheikh Hasina’s return will be a key demand in our election manifesto. Good relations are possible if India returns Sheikh Hasina and others against whom verdicts have already been delivered. Otherwise, relations may become difficult.