Dhaka: The Carter Center’s Senior Associate Director, Jonathan Stonestreet, met with National Consensus Commission Vice-Chairman, Professor Ali Riaz, at the Commission’s office located in the capital’s Parliament building.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, during the meeting, Professor Riaz detailed the Commission’s progress and objectives. He mentioned that a spreadsheet containing the Commission’s five key reform recommendations has been shared with political parties to collect their feedback. The Commission has conducted initial discussions with 32 parties based on the responses, with the first phase of discussions nearing completion. The second phase is set to begin soon.
Professor Riaz highlighted the Commission’s aim to create a national charter through broad consensus. This charter intends to outline Bangladesh’s future direction and contribute to establishing a democratic and accountable state. It seeks to ensure citizen rights through a robust Anti-Corruption Commission and an independent judiciary.
Also present at the meeting were The Carter Center’s Associate Director, Sairah Zaidi, and Local Assistant Specialist, Kazi Shahidul Islam.