A new political party, emerging from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and the National Citizen Committee, is set to launch this February under the leadership of Nahid Islam, a former advisor to the caretaker government. Nahid will serve as the convener of the party, but debates are ongoing among student leaders over who will take the role of member secretary. The party’s official launch is planned for a grand event at the Central Shaheed Minar around February 21, alongside the introduction of a student wing.

In a recent TV interview, Nahid Islam revealed plans for the party, emphasizing that students played a central role in past uprisings and that their leadership will form the foundation of the new political platform. He stated, “If I decide to join the party, I will resign from my government position, as participating in the new party is not compatible with remaining in government.” He hinted at making a final decision within days.

Although Nahid’s role as convener is confirmed, the position of member secretary has become a contentious issue. Discussions among leaders of the National Citizen Committee have spilled over onto social media, with prominent student leaders voicing their opinions. The committee, initially formed by young activists and leaders during past movements, includes figures like Akhtar Hossain, Asif-Nahid’s Democratic Student Power, former Shibir leaders, student federation members, and left-leaning activists. Many of them are now vying for key positions in the new party.

Candidates for the member secretary position include Akhtar Hossain, Ali Ahsan Junaid (a former Shibir leader), Hasnat Abdullah, and Sarzis Alam. This has sparked heated debates online, with prominent figures advocating for Akhtar’s inclusion in the leadership. Al Mashnun, media secretary of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, argued on Facebook that Akhtar’s exclusion from leadership is unacceptable. Similarly, movement coordinator Nusrat Tabassum expressed unwavering support for Akhtar, likening him to a spiritual guide.

Meanwhile, former Shibir president and National Citizen Committee joint member secretary Rafe Salman Rifat questioned on Facebook who was trying to “sideline” Akhtar from the party.

Samanta Sharmin, spokesperson for the National Citizen Committee, said they are conducting surveys to gauge public opinion about the party’s structure, name, and electoral symbol. Sharmin emphasized that the party aims to create a new culture of leadership free from individual or family dominance. Preparations, including the constitution and declaration, are underway to finalize the launch by the end of February. She added that public response has been overwhelming, with over 100,000 people submitting opinions online within two hours. The new party aims to fulfill the public’s aspirations for a fresh and inclusive political platform.