SAD, JNC launch nationwide listening initiative to shape new political party

The Students Against Discrimination (SAD) and Jatiya Nagorik Committee (JNC) have initiated a nationwide listening campaign to actively gather public input on what the people expect from the new political party, and to define the key priorities it must adopt for the future of the country.

In a joint press release, campaign leaders Nasiruddin Patwary and Hasnat Abdullah expressed their commitment to involving grassroots and marginalized communities in the political process.

They emphasize that a new political settlement should reflect the hopes and aspirations of all citizens through this emerging political party, said a press release today.

“This is the largest consultation effort ever undertaken by a new political party in our country,” said Nasiruddin Patwary. “We are not just launching a party—we are launching a movement where every citizen, from a garment worker to a university professor, has a say in shaping the policies that affect their lives.”

The initiative takes a multi-pronged approach, ensuring that both digitally connected and offline communities have equal access to participation. Paper-based forms are being used for those without internet access, while digital forms are available through WhatsApp and social media platforms to reach tech-savvy groups.

“Real change doesn’t happen in air-conditioned offices,” said Hasnat Abdullah. “That’s why we are on the ground, sitting with farmers in their fields, listening to rickshaw pullers at their stops, and hearing garment workers during their breaks. This party will be built from the streets up, not from the top down.”

Under the slogan “Apnar Chokhe Notun Bangladesh” (New Bangladesh in Your Eyes), the consultation initiative aims to engage the 300 representative committees and their extensive network of activists across the country. The goal is to connect with more than 100,000 people from all walks of life—rickshaw pullers, shopkeepers, day labourers, housemaids, teachers, sweepers, and others—seeking their input on the future direction of the new political party.

The new party is committed to being a voice for the many, not the few, and will represent those who have been excluded by the existing political system. It aspires to foster a political culture rooted in listening to ordinary people who have long been marginalized by the disconnect between political parties and the true aspirations of the public.

Key Facts:
●    The campaign aims to engage approximately 100,000 people to gather their opinions on the priorities they wish to see the new political party adopt.
●    People are also invited to suggest names and symbols for the new party.
●    This is a unique initiative in Bangladesh's political history, where public opinion is being gathered on such a wide scale.

Both SAD and JNC will continue as distinct political platforms to safeguard the spirit of the July Revolution while working together to build a political party that represents the people.