National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam has said that while elections are important, meaningful reforms and justice must come first.

“We’re not saying elections should be held in three or six months. We are saying that elections must take place—but only after ensuring justice and implementing reforms,” he said.

He made the remarks while addressing a rally organised by the NCP on Thursday night at 9pm at Shaheed Rafiq Chattar in Manikganj. The event was held as part of the party’s ongoing ‘Desh Garte July Padajatra’ (July March to Rebuild the Nation) programme.

“We envision a corruption-free, non-discriminatory society built on the foundation of justice and development. That is the Bangladesh we want,” added the NCP leader.

Criticising growing Islamophobia in the country, Nahid Islam said anyone who speaks up for Islam is labelled a militant or fundamentalist.

He also accused the ruling Awami League of hypocrisy, claiming, “They call themselves secular and non-communal, yet they have grabbed the most property from the Hindu community.”

Speaking about Manikganj's historical and political significance, the NCP convener praised its people for their role in both the Liberation War and the ongoing anti-discrimination movement. “Manikganj became independent on December 13 during the Liberation War. And on July 4, the people of Manikganj expelled the Awami League from here as part of our movement. This district has always been a step ahead when it comes to struggle and resistance,” he said. “But in terms of development, Manikganj is two steps behind. We aim to change that.”

Central NCP leaders including Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, Chief Coordinator Nasir Uddin Patwari, Northern Region Chief-Coordinator Sarjis Alam, Senior Joint Convener Samantha Sharmin, Senior Joint Member Secretary Dr Tasnim Zara, Southern Region Chief-Coordinator Hasnat Abdullah, and Manikganj District Coordinator Zahidur Rahman Talukder, were also present.

In light of the gathering, extensive security measures were taken throughout Manikganj town.

Alongside police deployment at the event venue and surrounding intersections, members of the Bangladesh Army, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and Ansar were also on patrol and actively monitoring the meeting site to ensure public safety.