### Bangladesh's National Citizen Party Forms Controversial Alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami Ahead of Elections - The National Citizen Party (NCP), a student-led political group that emerged from the protests that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has allied with the Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami in preparation for the upcoming parliamentary elections in February 2026. This alliance has sparked significant internal dissent within the NCP, as many members express concerns over aligning with a party known for its controversial stance on religious issues, particularly in a predominantly Muslim nation where religious minorities may feel threatened [https://www.asiaone.com/asia/bangladeshs-student-led-party-allies-islamists-ahead-election][https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2025/12/28/bangladesh-student-protest-group-forms-election-alliance-with-islamists_6748901_4.html]. ### Internal Dissent and Political Implications of the Alliance 1. **Formation of the Alliance**: The NCP's decision to ally with Jamaat-e-Islami has been framed as a strategic move to consolidate power ahead of the elections, but it has also led to a backlash from within the party itself [https://www.timesnownews.com/world/asia/bangladesh-election-internal-rift-in-student-led-ncp-over-alliance-with-jamaat-e-islami-article-153359320]. 2. **Concerns Among Party Members**: Reports indicate that around 30 leaders from the NCP have publicly opposed the alliance, with some resigning in protest. This internal rift highlights the ideological divide within the party regarding its future direction and the implications of partnering with an Islamist group [https://orangenews9.com/student-led-ncp-sees-internal-rift-ahead-of-bangladesh-polls]. 3. **Impact on Religious Minorities**: The resurgence of Islamist forces in Bangladesh, particularly through this alliance, raises alarms among religious minorities who fear increased marginalization and discrimination [https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2025/12/28/bangladesh-student-protest-group-forms-election-alliance-with-islamists_6748901_4.html]. ### Evidence of Political Turmoil and Public Sentiment - **Public Reaction**: The political landscape in Bangladesh is increasingly polarized, with many citizens expressing concern over the implications of this alliance. The NCP, which was initially seen as a reformist alternative to the traditional two-party system, now faces scrutiny over its commitment to secularism and minority rights [https://www.thedailyjagran.com/world/from-anti-hasina-uprising-to-islamist-alliance-how-ncp-jamaat-e-islam-tie-up-impact-dhaka-2026-polls-10289075]. - **Electoral Stakes**: The upcoming elections are critical, as they will determine the future political landscape of Bangladesh. The NCP's alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami could reshape voter dynamics, potentially alienating progressive voters while appealing to conservative factions [https://www.dailyprabhat.com/bangladesh-national-citizen-party-moves-towards-electoral-alliance-with-jamaat-e-islami-ahead-of-national-polls]. ### Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Bangladesh's Political Future 1. **Strategic Alliance**: The NCP's alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami represents a significant shift in Bangladesh's political dynamics, moving from a student-led reformist movement to a partnership with a controversial Islamist party. 2. **Internal Conflict**: The internal dissent within the NCP underscores the challenges the party faces in maintaining unity and coherence in its political strategy, especially as it navigates the complexities of aligning with Islamist ideologies. 3. **Broader Implications**: This alliance not only affects the NCP's electoral prospects but also raises critical questions about the future of secularism and minority rights in Bangladesh, making the February elections a pivotal moment for the country's political landscape [https://www.asiaone.com/asia/bangladeshs-student-led-party-allies-islamists-ahead-election][https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2025/12/28/bangladesh-student-protest-group-forms-election-alliance-with-islamists_6748901_4.html].