Post by : Saif Rahman

In a surprising turn of events, Bangladesh's student-led National Citizen Party (NCP) has forged an alliance with the Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami ahead of the impending February parliamentary elections. This partnership has spurred internal turmoil and cast doubt on the NCP’s future trajectory.

Born from last year’s significant student protests that resulted in the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the NCP had positioned itself as a centrist, reformist entity, touting its dedication to combating corruption and the prevailing influence of traditional political factions. The party attracted many young voters and first-time participants in the political landscape with its promise of clean governance.

As the election approaches, the NCP is finding it challenging to convert the momentum from protests into voter support, with recent polls indicating a considerable gap behind its competitors. To bolster its electoral chances in a fragmented political sphere, NCP leaders opted to ally with Jamaat-e-Islami. Party leader Nahid Islam mentioned that this strategic decision aims to consolidate their position, with candidate announcements expected soon.

This alliance has led to significant internal dissent. Jamaat-e-Islami is a highly controversial entity in Bangladesh, criticized for its historical opposition to the nation's independence in 1971 and allegations of wartime misconduct. The party’s past, marked by legal challenges and political isolation, has garnered it a small yet devoted following.

Among NCP members, the collaboration with Jamaat has provoked strong reactions. Senior leader Tasnim Jara, a medical professional who left her practice in the UK to join the NCP, has resigned in protest and plans to run as an independent candidate. Numerous other members have resigned as well, indicating the depth of discontent regarding this partnership.

Public sentiment is similarly mixed; past supporters of the NCP express concerns that this alliance undermines the party’s foundational ideals. University students, once enthusiastic backers of the movement, are now questioning whether the NCP has truly remained a harbinger of change or has merely aligned itself with traditional political players prioritizing power over principle.

This partnership arises as established political entities gain renewed influence. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), recently revitalized under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, has surged in popularity following his return from 17 years in exile. Recent polls indicate the BNP at the forefront, followed closely by Jamaat-e-Islami, while the NCP is lagging significantly.

The upcoming election on February 12 will occur under a transitional government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, who assumed control following Hasina’s exit. His administration is deemed vital for restoring order after extended periods of political instability.

Analysts caution that while the NCP might gain short-term benefits from the alliance with Jamaat, it risks long-term credibility erosion. By diverging from its core principles, the party could alienate the very supporters who saw it as a beacon of hope for transforming Bangladesh’s political arena.

This election stands as a pivotal moment for the National Citizen Party. Although the alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami might provide a temporary shield in the political landscape, it may ultimately dictate whether the party endures as a credible force or dwindles as another fleeting movement struggling to maintain cohesion in mainstream politics.

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