Dhaka: Jatiya Sangsad Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, today emphasized the need for the government to ensure justice by establishing the rule of law, as Bangladesh has recently restored democracy through a national parliamentary election that was deemed impartial.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Speaker made these remarks during a musical evening and dinner hosted at the LD Hall of Bangladesh Parliament. The event was organized to welcome Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Secretary General Anda Filip to Bangladesh. The Speaker highlighted concerns about the country’s political situation, noting that various illegal activities, including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and money laundering, had proliferated during the Awami League’s 15-year rule.
He reiterated that democracy has been re-established in Bangladesh through the latest impartial election and stressed that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is dedicated to meeting the hopes and aspirations of the populace. The Speaker further asserted the necessity for the government to guarantee justice by upholding the rule of law.
Highlighting the IPU’s significant contributions since its inception in 1889, the Speaker acknowledged its role in safeguarding human rights and enhancing parliamentary relations globally. He also pointed out the IPU’s potential impact on addressing climate change and environmental protection, particularly as Bangladesh is naturally susceptible to environmental disasters.
Additionally, the Speaker brought attention to the challenges faced by developing nations like Bangladesh, which are experiencing negative effects from the global energy crisis and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. He suggested that the IPU could effectively mitigate such challenges by fostering parliamentary leadership within democratic frameworks worldwide.
IPU Secretary General Anda Filip remarked that a truly democratic parliament, elected by the people, has been established in Bangladesh. She emphasized the importance of parliament in enabling citizens to exercise their voting rights for better livelihoods and the protection of human dignity. “Parliament is the foundation of democracy,” she stated, highlighting its essential role in safeguarding human rights and the rule of law.
The event concluded with a cultural program performed by artists from the Birishiri Academy in Netrokona, enjoyed by the Speaker, the IPU Secretary General, and other invited guests. The evening was followed by a dinner attended by Deputy Speaker of Bangladesh Jatiya Sangsad Barrister Kayser Kamal, Members of Parliament, and other attendees.