Bangladesh: Controversial Student Leader Unveils New Political Party
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Synopsis
On February 28, Nahid Islam, a pivotal student leader of the anti-quota protests that led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government, announced the formation of the Jatiya Nagorik Party in Dhaka. His new political endeavor is expected to reshape Bangladesh's political landscape amidst ongoing turmoil.
Key Takeaways
- Nahid Islam announces new political party.
- Named the Jatiya Nagorik Party.
- Nahid led the Student Against Discrimination movement.
- Former advisor in the interim government.
- Political entry predicted to complicate Bangladesh's landscape.
Dhaka, Feb 28 (NationPress) Nahid Islam, a controversial student leader and a primary organizer of the anti-quota protests that resulted in the ousting of the Awami League government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August last year, proclaimed the establishment of a new political party in Dhaka on Friday.
Nahid, who spearheaded the Student Against Discrimination (SAD) movement that captivated Bangladesh last year, revealed that the new entity will be named the 'Jatiya Nagorik Party', or the National Citizen Party.
Together with Asif Mahmud, another pivotal figure in the SAD, Nahid was appointed to a significant role in the interim government formed under the guidance of Muhammad Yunus following Hasina's removal.
Having served as an advisor in the telecommunications, information technology, and posts ministry, he recently stepped down from the Cabinet to initiate this new political party.
"We will construct the state with the interests of Bangladesh and its people as our priority," local media quoted Nahid during the party's launch event.
As a self-proclaimed "student activist", Nahid emerged as a prominent figure in the establishment of the interim government. He not only engaged in discussions with Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman after Hasina's exit from Dhaka but is also believed to have significantly influenced Yunus to participate in the interim setup.
Since his rise in the political landscape of Bangladesh, Nahid has made numerous attempts to mitigate the persecution of minorities, particularly Hindus.
Experts predict that his foray into politics will further complicate the already tumultuous political landscape in Bangladesh, as this new party seeks to leverage the widespread support garnered during last year's protest movement.
