National Citizen Party (NCP) convener and Member of Parliament Nahid Islam has alleged that a 'deep state' comprising bureaucrats, business elites, and mafia networks continues to control Bangladesh’s state apparatus even after the fall of the previous regime. In an interview with Amar Desh published on April 23, 2026, he said that the promises of reform made during the July uprising have been undermined by vested interests benefiting from the old power structure. He warned that maintaining this continuity would betray the spirit of the uprising.

Nahid Islam criticized both the ruling BNP and remnants of the former Awami League establishment for resisting institutional reforms, including judicial independence and administrative restructuring. He accused the government of protecting corrupt bankers, politicizing the July Memorial Museum project, and allowing pro-Awami League media influence to return. He also expressed concern over foreign policy transparency and the government’s handling of economic issues.

He cautioned that if the government fails to meet public expectations for reform, popular anger could reignite. The NCP and its allies, he said, are preparing to mobilize public opinion and may take to the streets if necessary.