Dhaka: National Consensus Commission Vice-Chairman Professor Ali Riaz today compared the diverse political opinions of different political parties with streams of rivers, saying that all these streams ultimately converged into one destination to build a democratic Bangladesh. He made the remarks while delivering the welcome address at the ‘July National Charter 2025’ signing ceremony at South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban this afternoon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Riaz emphasized that despite differences of opinion and the varied paths taken by political entities, unity must be achieved at a confluence to resist autocracy. “Differences of opinion will remain; the paths we take may differ. But we must unite at one point. Many streams must meet at the same confluence so that we can say – though we have many currents, our destination is one – the creation of a democratic Bangladesh. We must all stand united against any form of autocracy,” he said.
Ali Riaz further stated that the occasion marked a significant moment in Bangladesh’s history, highlighting the importance of the July National Charter as a milestone in the nation’s journey forward. He described the charter as not just an agreement among political parties but a social contract involving the people, the political parties, and the state itself.
Referring to the July-August mass uprising in 2024, Riaz noted the charter was shaped by the sacrifices of those who lost their lives or were injured in that movement. “The July-August uprising reflected the people’s long-cherished desire for reform. For 16 years, Bangladesh endured a fascist regime. The courage and determination showed by citizens – beginning with the anti-discrimination student movement that evolved into the ‘one-point demand’ – finally forced that regime to flee. The National Charter is a monument to that achievement,” he added.
Professor Ali Riaz also cautioned that the effort to reform the state will not succeed overnight. “A document alone cannot guarantee success. We hope this national document will be implemented swiftly and that, guided by citizens’ voices, it will shape the direction of Bangladesh’s governance in the future.”
The long-awaited ‘July National Charter 2025’ was signed by Chief Adviser and Chairman of the National Consensus Commission Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, along with Commission members and representatives of various political parties.