The student-led National Citizen Party (NCP) in Bangladesh has faced significant defeats in the recently held parliamentary elections, raising questions about its alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami.
In August 2024, a student movement led by the National Citizen Party (NCP) successfully ended Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule in Bangladesh. However, the NCP's performance in the 13th parliamentary elections has been disappointing, securing only 5 out of 30 contested seats. This outcome has been a major setback for thousands of young supporters who had hoped the NCP would emerge as a 'third option' in the political landscape of Bangladesh.
The NCP's electoral failure is further complicated by its alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami, which appears to have created divisions within the party. Several prominent female leaders resigned, citing feelings of neglect and exclusion. This internal strife illustrates the challenges the NCP faces in maintaining a united front and resonating with its base, which initially rallied against the mainstream political establishment.
Political analysts suggest that the NCP's alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami may have been perceived negatively by voters, as it carries a controversial legacy. The implications of this alliance and the NCP's poor electoral performance could significantly impact the party's future, prompting it to reassess its strategies and alliances in an evolving political environment.
