Dhaka: Dr. Ali Riaz, head of the Constitution Reform Commission and vice-chairman of the National Consensus Commission, issued a stark warning today, suggesting that without reform, fascism could return to Bangladesh, even if future governments are elected fairly. "Reforms are not merely a matter of governmental will; they are crucial for political parties and citizens alike. To establish a national consensus on reforms and formulate a citizen's charter, citizens must be vocal," Riaz stated during a roundtable discussion at the ATM Shamsul Haque Auditorium of CIRDAP.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the roundtable, initiated by the civic organization Shujan - Citizens for Good Governance, was chaired by Shujan secretary Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar. The event featured speeches from prominent figures, including Justice Emdadul Haque, former secretary Abdul Awal Majumder, former professor Dr. Dilara Chowdhury, and other notable participants like Monir Haider, Dr. Asif Mohammad Sahan, Abu Sayeed Khan, and Mahrukh Mohiuddin. Dilip Kumar Sarkar, central coordinator of Shujan, presented the keynote speech.
Dr. Ali Riaz elaborated on the need for reform by highlighting that Bangladesh's institutions have become increasingly fragile over the past 15 years. He noted that no significant initiatives have been taken to build robust institutions in the 54 years since independence. Riaz stressed the urgency for reform, emphasizing that without restructuring the administration and judiciary, even a fairly elected government could pave the way for a fascist regime. He called for structural changes to prevent dictatorship and promote accountability.
Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar, chairing the roundtable, asserted that Sheikh Hasina had established an authoritarian regime over 15 years, eroding the electoral system and institutional structure. He mentioned the opportunity to rebuild the state structure following Hasina's departure amid a mass uprising. Majumdar outlined the interim government's three mandates: implementing key reforms to prevent authoritarianism, bringing perpetrators of crimes against humanity to justice, and organizing fair elections.
Justice Emdadul Haque addressed the ongoing controversies surrounding the judiciary, referencing the Judicial Reform Commission's detailed recommendations. He emphasized the need to implement the reform program promptly.
Dr. Dilara Chowdhury highlighted the necessity of political party reforms and democratic practices within parties. She called for logical reforms and timely elections, stressing that reform is a continuous process.
Abdul Awal Majumder identified the lack of mutual trust among political parties as a primary issue. He advocated for social harmony and proposed various reforms, such as removing the President's role as head of the caretaker government and establishing a separate commission for election delimitation.
Abu Saeed Khan pointed out consensus on many issues within reform commissions but noted controversy over proposals like substituting "people's republic" with "civic democracy" and maintaining Islam as the state religion. He argued for amending old laws to preserve the constitution achieved through the liberation war.
Dr. Asif Mohammad Sahan concluded by mentioning the national consensus on the need for reforms, suggesting institutional changes like establishing an upper and lower house of parliament to ensure checks and balances.