National Citizen Party convener and opposition chief whip Md Nahid Islam demanded that the Election Commission be reconstituted before local government elections, speaking on July 25, 2026 at an eleven-party alliance divisional rally at Sylhet’s historic Alia Madrasa field. The rally was organized around five demands, including implementation of a referendum mandate and easing public hardship. Islam said youth awakenings in different countries were a continuation of the July Revolution.

Islam welcomed reports that India’s education minister had resigned amid weeks of protests, praising protesting students and young people there. He alleged that the government formed after elections following the July Revolution had begun disregarding the people’s verdict and failed to respect students and youth. He warned BNP not to forget the July Revolution, youth protests, or the sacrifices of 1,400 martyrs.

He said the reform-versus-amendment debate had ended in the Consensus Commission and stated that BNP had previously agreed to a referendum and reforms. He cited severe gas shortages in Dhaka and increases in electricity, fuel, cylinder and vegetable prices. Organizers said a broader programme would be announced from a forthcoming grand rally in Dhaka.