Sylhet: The Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) has initiated a series of dialogues across all divisions of the country, including Dhaka, focusing on priority areas for reform to establish a democratic state. As part of this initiative, the event titled “Dialogue for Democratic Reconstruction” was held today in the Nirvana Inn Hotel conference hall in Sylhet, said a press release here.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the dialogue featured former president of the Sylhet District Bar Association Advocate Emadullah Shahidul Islam Shaheen and former dean of Shahjalal University of Science and Technology Professor Kamal Ahmed Chowdhury as guests. CGS Executive Director Zillur Rahman moderated the event. Representatives from various political parties, teachers, students, lawyers, industrial entrepreneurs, civil society members, journalists, rights activists, small business owners, women’s organizers, and volunteers participated in the open discussion, sharing their valuable opinions on necessary reforms.
Adv. Shaheen stated that the 1972 Constitution did not have the capacity to ensure fundamental rights for the war-torn people of Bangladesh. However, Bangladesh is now economically and institutionally stronger. He emphasized that food, clothing, education, and healthcare should be recognized as fundamental rights and ensured by the state, with their inclusion in the constitution. He also highlighted the need for a constitutional separation of the legislative, judicial, and executive branches of government.
Professor Kamal Ahmed Chowdhury noted that although Bangladesh has a constitution, constitutional governance has never been fully established. He pointed out that the constitution was amended in 1975 to impose a one-party rule, which destroyed the original spirit of the constitution.
CGS Executive Director Zillur Rahman remarked since independence, the people of Bangladesh have repeatedly taken to the streets to claim their democratic rights. Unfortunately, political parties and different groups have often exploited these movements for their own interests, distorting the spirit of the struggles. Referring to the current situation, he mentioned that the country is going through a critical phase, with ongoing debate among political forces about whether reforms should come first or elections should be held first.
BNP Sylhet district unit President Abdul Kaiyum Chowdhury stated that the July uprising was not just a two-month movement; it was the result of nearly 15 years of struggle. He emphasized the importance of holding elections this year to ensure a smooth transition to an elected government. Similarly, BNP Sylhet metropolitan unit President Rezaul Hasan Lodi highlighted the 31-point agenda announced by BNP to reform the state structure, which he believes can establish a secure Bangladesh for the next 50 years.
Jamaat-e-Islami Sylhet metropolitan unit Ameer Md. Fakhrul Islam emphasized the need for a democratic government and freedom of expression before holding elections. He suggested that local government elections should be conducted promptly.
The spokesperson of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Maleka Khatun Sera, underscored the importance of ensuring economic equality and the rights of marginalized people after any political upheaval. Citizens’ Movement coordinator Abdul Karim Kim stressed the need for democratic practices within political parties and the reinstatement of the ‘No Vote’ option in elections.
Representing the indigenous community, Lakshmikanta Singh, Executive Director of Edco, asserted the importance of recognizing indigenous peoples in Bangladesh according to the UN definition. The event was attended by representatives from various organizations and professionals who shared their insights on national reconstruction of Bangladesh.