Feb polls: NCP pledges to abolish RAB, restructure DGFI in election manifesto

The National Citizen Party (NCP) has unveiled its detailed election manifesto, pledging to abolish the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and restructure the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI) as part of its agenda for reform and justice.

The party’s Convener, Nahid Islam, formally presented the manifesto titled “Manifesto of Youth and Dignity” – released under the slogan “Bangladesh through a new lens” – at a city hotel in the capital today (30 January).

According to the manifesto, the decision to abolish RAB is based on allegations of its involvement in crimes against humanity.

In place of RAB, the party proposes forming a modern, efficient, and accountable elite force within the existing police structure, following what the NCP described as the gendarmerie model.

The manifesto also outlines plans to restructure DGFI and introduce a clear and stringent legal framework to prevent intelligence agencies from being used for political purposes or engaging in human rights violations.

This framework would define the scope, responsibilities, and accountability mechanisms of intelligence operations, it said.

To ensure democratic oversight and transparency, the NCP further commits to regular monitoring of intelligence agencies through relevant parliamentary committees. The party says this approach aims to safeguard national security while upholding citizens’ rights and the rule of law.