Dhaka:Jatiya Sangsad (JS) Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad Bir Bikram, MP, emphasized the transformative potential of true democracy in advancing the socio-economic status of disadvantaged and marginalized communities. He made these remarks while addressing the public launch of the 'All-Party Parliamentary Caucus for Disadvantaged Communities' as the chief guest.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event, organized by the Citizen's Platform for SDGs, Bangladesh, took place at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC). It gathered lawmakers and various stakeholder representatives, highlighting the need for an all-party parliamentary caucus to protect the rights of vulnerable populations and improve their living standards.
The Speaker advocated for strengthened democracy through the election of genuine people's representatives, describing the 13th Jatiya Sangsad election as the fairest in the country's history. He criticized the previous Awami League government for undermining democratic rights through what he termed as farcical elections and praised the July Mass Uprising in 2024 for ending authoritarian rule.
Furthermore, the Speaker underscored the importance of a firm political commitment to combat corruption to facilitate development across society. He acknowledged the significant contributions of female parliament members in legislative proceedings and advocated for an independent Election Commission to promote the election of genuine representatives to foster national development.
Barrister A M Mahbub Uddin Khokon, MP, chaired the event, with Jatiya Sangsad Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni, MP, serving as the special guest, and Lawmaker Md Saiful Islam attending as an honored guest. Discussions covered critical issues such as educational and healthcare access for ethnic communities, national ID cards for urban floating populations, and social protections for various vulnerable groups.
Participants also proposed special legislation to safeguard the rights and welfare of communities such as the Bede, coastal fishing communities, distressed persons, orphans, and the elderly. A documentary titled 'Leave No One Behind,' highlighting the struggles of disadvantaged people, was screened at the event. Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, convener of the Citizen's Platform for SDGs, Bangladesh, presented the background and objectives of the caucus. The event saw attendance from caucus members, parliamentary whips, stakeholders, invited guests, and NGO representatives.