Bangladesh Student-Led Party Forms Controversial Alliance with Islamists Ahead of Election
In a major political move ahead of Bangladesh’s 2025 national parliamentary elections, the student-led National Citizen Party (NCP) has announced a strategic alliance with the Islamist party Jamaat‑e‑Islami, raising concerns about the party’s ideological direction and voter appeal. Student Party Seeks Greater Unity Amid Fragmented Politics The NCP,
born from mass student protests that contributed to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024, has positioned itself as a reformist alternative to Bangladesh’s traditional political duopoly. Party convener Nahid Islam emphasized that the coalition is intended to strengthen political unity and maximize electoral reach. Internal Dissent and Resignations The alliance has sparked internal dissent, with senior leaders such as Dr. Tasnim Jara resigning in protest. Several members expressed ideological concerns, opting to contest elections independently rather than associate with an Islamist partner. Analysts suggest this could weaken the NCP’s appeal to secular and young voters who formed the backbone of the student movement. Jamaat-e-Islami Returns to Political Spotlight Jamaat‑e‑Islami, controversial for its opposition to Bangladesh’s independence in 1971 and alleged wartime crimes, was reinstated as a registered political party earlier in 2025. Its renewed political presence is shaping pre-election alliances and strategies across the country. Election Implications Recent polls indicate that despite the alliance, the NCP still trails behind established parties like the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat‑e‑Islami in voter support. The upcoming election will be overseen by a neutral interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, tasked with ensuring a fair and stable voting process. Political experts warn that this coalition could redefine Bangladesh’s political dynamics, testing whether new student-led movements can sustain influence or if strategic alliances will dominate the landscape. __ Bangladesh election 2025, student-led party Bangladesh, National Citizen Party, Jamaat-e-Islami alliance, Dhaka politics, Bangladeshi political news ( reuters.com )
