Dhaka: The Constitutional Reform Commission has proposed significant changes to the constitution, centered on seven core objectives aimed at fostering an effective democracy, ensuring fundamental human rights, and promoting accountability.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the seven objectives include establishing a non-discriminatory democratic system that guarantees equality, human dignity, and social justice. These ideals were initially promised during the War of Liberation in 1971 and reiterated during the student uprising in 2024. The Commission's goals also reflect the people's aspiration for a participatory democracy, as expressed during the 2024 uprising.
The Commission emphasizes the importance of involving a diverse cross-section of people in politics and governance to prevent the emergence of fascist regimes. It proposes the separation of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches to maintain a balance of power. Additionally, the Commission recommends decentralizing state power and empowering local governments to ensure adequate representation and autonomy.
To safeguard the independence and sovereignty of the nation, the Commission advises taking necessary measures to protect constitutional bodies and organizations created under the law. These objectives are grounded in the political commitments outlined in the Declaration of Independence issued on April 10, 1971, focusing on equality, human dignity, and social justice, as well as the collective aspirations of the anti-fascist mass uprising in 2024.
The report, submitted by the Commission led by Professor Ali Riaz, suggests constitutional amendments aimed at reducing the Prime Minister's absolute power and limiting the office to two terms. The Commission also proposes changes to the basic principles of the constitution, the structure of parliament and interim government, expanding fundamental rights, decentralizing the judiciary, strengthening local governance, and establishing a National Constitutional Council.
The Commission, formed by Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus on October 7, 2024, submitted its report to him on January 15. A summary of the report was later made available on the Commission's website.