[🇧🇩] Reforms carried out by the interim/future Govts.

[Saif]

Information commission needs independence

As Bangladesh faces escalating demands for greater accountability in governance, the prolonged dysfunctioning of its information commission signals a troubling disregard for the nation's commitment to transparency. Six months after the 2024 political changeover, the commission remains non-functiona

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Information commission needs independence
FE
Published :
Mar 08, 2025 22:59
Updated :
Mar 08, 2025 22:59

As Bangladesh faces escalating demands for greater accountability in governance, the prolonged dysfunctioning of its information commission signals a troubling disregard for the nation's commitment to transparency. Six months after the 2024 political changeover, the commission remains non-functional, its leadership positions vacant despite discussions with the interim government. This alarming development, brought to light by the Information Rights Forum (IRF) recently at a press conference, highlights a significant lapse in governance. The IRF has justifiably called for the information commission to be established as an independent constitutional body-a move that would enhance its autonomy and safeguard it from political interference. Without such independence, the commission risks repeating past failures, such as the appointment of politically aligned leaders, which eroded public trust.

The IRF has proposed several amendments to the Right to Information (RTI) Act to enhance its effectiveness. These include expanding the Act's scope to cover private organisations operating with government licences or contracts, revising information delivery timelines, designating union-level offices as information-providing units, and increasing penalties for non-compliance. These proposals have merit. Not only would they strengthen the RTI framework, but they would also transform it from a mere legal right into a practical tool for citizens. During the previous autocratic regime, the commission-despite being the primary regulatory body for enforcing the RTI Act-was compromised by political allegiances within its leadership. Positions meant for impartial oversight were instead filled through political appointments, undermining its credibility and preventing it from functioning as a truly independent watchdog. As a result, the commission remained vulnerable to political interference, and its lack of autonomy routinely sidelined citizens' right to information when it mattered most.

For the RTI Act to serve its intended purpose, it must be fully implemented without obstruction. The current state of affairs, characterized by prolonged inactivity and apparent government indifference, is unacceptable. The government must recognise the information commission's crucial role in fostering transparency and accountability -- both essential pillars of a healthy democracy. It should prioritise granting the information commission constitutional status to guarantee its operational and financial independence. The proposed amendments to the RTI Act, as presented by the IRF, provide a clear roadmap for strengthening the commission and ensuring its effectiveness. The government should engage in constructive dialogue with the IRF and other stakeholders to expedite the amendment process and address any concerns. The appointment of commissioners must be conducted with utmost transparency, impartiality and urgency, ensuring that individuals of high integrity and competence are selected. Additionally, the government should allocate sufficient resources to the commission, enabling it to perform its duties effectively. Establishing clear operational rules and procedures for the commission and clear performance metrics for commissioners, particularly regarding information disclosure and appeals, is also crucial.

A functional information commission is the bedrock of participatory democracy that enables citizens to hold power to account. The interim government, tasked with implementing critical reforms to pave the way for future democratic processes, cannot remain passive while a cornerstone of transparency crumbles. A democracy thrives when its citizens are well-informed, and ensuring an efficient, independent information commission is vital for building an open and accountable governance system. The time to act is now, to ensure that the Right to Information Act becomes a powerful instrument for promoting good governance and empowering citizens.​

 

[Saif]

Guterres expresses solidarity with Bangladesh’s reform, transition

Visiting United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) Antonio Guterres has expressed his solidarity with Bangladesh’s reform and transition process.

en.prothomalo.com

Guterres expresses solidarity with Bangladesh’s reform, transition
BSS
Dhaka
Published: 14 Mar 2025, 17: 28

Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain called on him at Hotel InterContinental on 14 March, 2025. BSS

Visiting United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) Antonio Guterres has expressed his solidarity with Bangladesh’s reform and transition process.

The UNSG made the remarks when Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain called on him at Hotel InterContinental in the morning on Friday.

During the meeting, the Secretary-General and the Foreign Adviser discussed Bangladesh’s ongoing transition and reform efforts, according to a readout issued by UN after the meeting.

“The Secretary-General expressed his solidarity with Bangladesh’s reform and transition process,” said the readout.

The UN Chief expressed appreciation for the close cooperation between the United Nations and Bangladesh as well as for Bangladesh’s generosity towards Rohingyas.

The Secretary-General also thanked Bangladesh for its strong commitment to UN peacekeeping.

After the foreign adviser, High Representative of Chief Advisor on Rohingya Issue and Priority Matters Dr Khalilur Rahman also called on the UN secretary general at the same venue and discussed the issues related to the Rohingya crisis.

“The Secretary-General and the High Representative discussed the situation in Rakhine state and the upcoming High-Level Conference on Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar,” said the UN readout.

Later, the UN Secretary General met with Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus at the Chief Adviser’s Office.

Antonio Guterres arrived in Bangladesh yesterday on a 4-day visit at the invitation of the Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.

During the visit the UNSG will visit the Rohingya camp together with Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus later today and join an iftar with one lakh Rohinbgyas there.

The UN Secretary-General is expected to "issue a call" to the international community to step up their humanitarian assistance for distressed Rohingyas.​

 

[Saif]

Govt fostering consensus on sustainable reforms in labour sector: Sakhawat

Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain highlighted this commitment during the 353rd Governing Body Session of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) held yesterday

www.thedailystar.net

Govt fostering consensus on sustainable reforms in labour sector: Sakhawat

The interim government is fostering national consensus on sustainable reforms in all sectors, including labour, through active stakeholder participation.

Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain highlighted this commitment during the 353rd Governing Body Session of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) held yesterday.

Sakhawat, accompanied by chief adviser's envoy for international affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, presented a progress report on Bangladesh's labour reforms amid existing complaints lodged against the nation.

In his speech, Sakhawat noted that the government has dismissed most politically motivated cases against trade union leaders and workers while ensuring genuine worker and employer representation in democratic tri-partite committees.

He also highlighted consensus on simplifying documentation for trade union registration, reducing mandatory meeting requirements, and allowing up to five unions within a single establishment.

Representatives from developing nations across Asia and Africa lauded Bangladesh's efforts in advancing workers' rights and fostering decent working environments.

Development partners welcomed the government's initiatives and pledged continued support.

The session concluded with a decision to defer the next discussion on the case from November 2025 to March 2026, reflecting positive steps taken by Bangladesh.

In his closing remarks, Sakhawat urged global stakeholders to support the swift resolution of the ongoing case against Bangladesh.​

 

[Saif]

Reform process facing internal, external resistance

Both internal and external forces are attempting to obstruct the reform process, National Consensus Commission (NCC) Vice-President Prof Ali Riaz said yesterday.

www.thedailystar.net

Reform process facing internal, external resistance
Prof Ali Riaz tells roundtable discussion

Both internal and external forces are attempting to obstruct the reform process, National Consensus Commission (NCC) Vice-President Prof Ali Riaz said yesterday.

He described the reform process as the first major opportunity since the 1971 Liberation War to transform the state into an accountable institution.

Speaking at a roundtable discussion titled "Political Consensus and Citizens' Thinking in State Reform" at the capital's CIRDAP auditorium yesterday, he emphasised the need for public participation in the process. The event was organised by Shujan—Citizens for Good Governance.

"Moving forward is impossible without the participation, pressure, and inclusion of citizens," he said. "While political parties represent a large segment of people, they do not represent everyone. Citizens' opinions will be incorporated in parallel with discussions with parties."

Prof Riaz said that Bangladesh's institutions had been severely weakened over the past 16 years due to one-person-centric rule.

"The judiciary has been practically destroyed, and other institutions have been deliberately dismantled. Without establishing an accountable state system, including electoral reforms, the situation will remain unchanged," he said.

While political parties represent a large segment of people, they do not represent everyone. Citizens' opinions will be incorporated in parallel with discussions with parties.— Prof Ali Riaz Vice President, National Consensus Commission

He warned that the current structural system would be unable to prevent future autocratic rule.

Addressing queries about constitutional amendments, he defended the proposal to replace secularism with pluralism while retaining the term "state religion".

"Secularism has become the principle of a single political party, which the people have already rejected," he said. "Pluralism is a broader concept that includes all religions and castes under one umbrella."

He acknowledged that the provision for a state religion clause remained a divisive issue. "Multiple governments have upheld this provision since its inclusion. There is a political reality behind it," he said.

Over 40 percent of 190 countries globally have similar provisions, he added.

Shujan Secretary and NCC member Badiul Alam Majumdar outlined the interim government's three key responsibilities: preventing the return of autocracy, prosecuting crimes against humanity, and transferring power to elected political parties.

"These tasks can proceed simultaneously. Some reforms must be implemented before elections, while others can follow. The Election Commission must be independent and accountable, and a neutral government is essential during elections," he said.

Another NCC member Justice Emdadul Haque reiterated that judicial reform was a critical issue, noting that commissions had already submitted reports.

"Reforms are an ongoing process that will be enriched further by citizens' opinions," he said.

Former Jahangirnagar University Professor Dilara Chowdhury stressed that over 90 percent of people support state reforms, and political parties are aligning with this demand.

"Though parties have their flaws, a country cannot function without them. Reforms must begin within the parties themselves, and necessary changes should be implemented before elections," she said.

Journalist Abu Saeed Khan argued against removing secularism while retaining "state religion", calling the proposal illogical.

"Secularism was not just an Awami League concern; it was a collective movement," he said. He also warned that the constitution should be amended, not rewritten, as the 1972 version was created through national consensus.

Dilip Kumar Sarker, central coordinator of Shujan, presented the keynote paper.

"Following the people's uprising, there is hope that authoritarian or fascist rule will not return and that democracy will be institutionalised," he said. "The ultimate goal is a society based on equality, human dignity, and justice. To achieve this, state reform and a change in political culture are essential."​

 

[Saif]

Media commission suggests merging BSS, BTV, Bangladesh Betar

As part of this integration, the commission suggested incorporating BSS as the news division of the new entity, which would consist of three main divisions -- Television, Radio, and News

www.thedailystar.net

Media commission suggests merging BSS, BTV, Bangladesh Betar

The Media Reform Commission has recommended merging Bangladesh Television (BTV), Bangladesh Betar, and Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) into a single entity, which could be named "Bangladesh Broadcasting Corporation" or "National Broadcasting Corporation."

As part of this integration, the commission suggested incorporating BSS as the news division of the new entity, which would consist of three main divisions -- Television, Radio, and News.

The commission head Kamal Ahmed and other members submitted its report to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at state guest house Jamuna today.

Later, at a press briefing in front of Jamuna, Kamal Ahmed presented a summary of the report.

Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and other commission members were present, and journalists were also provided with copies of the report summary.

Currently, BTV, Bangladesh Betar, and BSS operate as separate entities. The commission noted that combining television and radio into a single organisation would allow for optimal use of resources, expertise, and creativity. Similar models exist in international broadcasters like BBC and Deutsche Welle.

The commission emphasised that this integration would be particularly effective for news and current affairs programming. It pointed out that separating audio from video formats is not a complex task, and many radio programmes are now streamed as video content on social media.

Bangladesh Betar already does this regularly through its Dhaka and regional centres. Given this reality, formalising institutional collaboration between BTV and Bangladesh Betar has become essential.

According to the commission, the newsrooms of BTV and Bangladesh Betar lack professionalism and primarily function as platforms for government bulletins, state ceremonies, and development news.

News divisions in these outlets are typically run by government information officers, and reporters who are recruited have no opportunity to work independently.

On the other hand, despite its shortcomings and inefficiencies, BSS operates a professional newsroom.

However, due to government control and political interference, BSS has failed to become a fully independent and a model news agency.

The First Press Commission had previously suggested that a state-owned news agency should not exist, as many countries around the world do not have one.

In this context, the commission believes that instead of keeping BSS as a separate entity, it should be integrated as the "News Division" of the new unified broadcasting organisation. The news produced by this central newsroom would be broadcast on both BTV and Bangladesh Betar.

The proposed organisation would have three main divisions -- Television, Radio, and News -- under the Bangladesh Broadcasting Corporation or National Broadcasting Corporation.

The News Division would continue providing services to its existing clients. Each division would be led by a director, while the unified broadcasting entity would be headed by a director general.

Additionally, the Media Reform Commission has proposed replacing both the Bangladesh Press Council and the planned Broadcast Commission with a single regulatory body -- Bangladesh Media Commission. The commission has also drafted a legal framework for establishing this new media oversight body.​

 

[Saif]

Media commission recommends 'one media, one house'

No single company, group, individual, family, or entrepreneur should own multiple media outlets, it said

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Media commission recommends 'one media, one house'

Photo: CA press wing

The Media Reform Commission has recommended that no single company, group, individual, family, or entrepreneur should own multiple media outlets.

The commission recommended a bar on cross-ownership (owner of a TV station may not be allowed to own a newspaper) and ownership of multiple outlets of the same nature (same owner of more than one news outlets in the same platform in the same language) to safeguard the commercial viability of the sector, which it terms 'one media, one house'.

In its report, the commission proposed a series of reforms under 21 key points and sub-clauses.

The commission's chairman, Kamal Ahmed, along with other members, submitted the report to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the state guest house Jamuna today.

The commission has also recommended bringing media outlets under the capital market.

As part of this, it suggested setting a deadline for medium and large media companies to go public by offering shares and getting listed on the stock exchange.

Among other recommendations, the commission stated that no journalist should be hired—whether on a temporary, permanent, or contractual basis—without an appointment letter, a photo ID, and a salary.

It also proposed that the probation period should not exceed one year.

Additionally, the commission recommended that the starting basic salary for permanently employed journalists should be equivalent to that of a first-class government gazetted officer.​

 

[Saif]

Reform may result in weak govt system, says BNP

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Saturday alleged that the reform proposals of the National Consensus Commission appeared to be an unreasonable attempt to appoint unelected persons to state positions in the future.

www.newagebd.net

Reform may result in weak govt system, says BNP
Staff Correspondent 22 March, 2025, 16:14

BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir addresses a press conference at the BNP chairperson’s office in the capital’s Gulshan area on Saturday. | UNB Photo.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Saturday alleged that the reform proposals of the National Consensus Commission appeared to be an unreasonable attempt to appoint unelected persons to state positions in the future.

BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir made the allegation at an emergency press conference at the party chairperson’s Gulshan office in the capital.

‘The democratic character of the state and the people’s ownership are reflected in the elected parliament. However, a review of the constitutional and electoral reform commission’s recommendations revealed that politicians are incompetent,’ he said.

Fakhrul said that the recommendations proposed new commissions, including a Constitutional Commission.

‘The description of the jurisdiction and activities of these commissions give ample reasons to believe that the aim is to undermine and disempower the legislative and executive branches as much as possible and it will result in a weak and almost ineffective government system,’ he said.

The BNP leader said that it was desirable that various reforms and constitutional amendments would be made with importance given to the democratic traditions, culture, and religious sentiments of the people.

Fakhrul said that there were similarities between the issues mentioned in the spreadsheet of the National Consensus Commission and the statements made by its members at different times, as well as those from certain political parties.

‘Theses may raise questions in the public’s mind about whether all the issues are part of a pre-determined action plan and whether they would truly serve the interests of democracy,’ he said.

Although highly important issues like the ‘preamble’ of the constitution were included in the reform commission’s recommendations, it was not mentioned in the spreadsheet, he said.

Though the spreadsheet listed about 70 proposals, the main report contained approximately 123 recommendations, he said.

He said that, similarly, although the main report of the Electoral Reform Commission had included around 150 recommendations, the spreadsheet had mentioned only 27 issues, most of which were related to constitutional reform.

‘Therefore, we believe that attaching our views on the main recommendations to the spreadsheet will avoid confusion,’ Fakhrul said.

BNP will submit its response and observations on the reform proposals to the NCC on Sunday.

The BNP leader once again alleged that some advisers of the interim government were directly and indirectly involved in the process of forming political parties while in power and the issue had created doubts in people’s minds.

He said that various signs and evidence of using the administrative machinery in this process gradually emerged. ‘It is not pleasant for the country and the democracy at all.’

‘There is no room for unnecessary debates such as “reforms before the election” or “election before reforms”. Since reform is an ongoing process, reforms and elections can proceed simultaneously,’ Fakhrul said.

He also mentioned that a reform charter could be prepared based on the consensus of political parties and the elected government would implement the reforms later.

In this situation, the main task of the interim government is to organise a free and fair national election quickly after implementing necessary reforms based on consensus, and then transfer responsibility to the elected government, Fakhrul said.

He mentioned that the elected government would complete the reforms desired by the people’s consensus.

BNP standing committee members Salahuddin Ahmed, Mirza Abbas, Selima Rahman and Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku were also present.​

 

[Saif]

REFORM DIALOGUE: Khelafat Majlis for all reforms before polls

Khelafat Majlis central leaders, while meeting the National Consensus Commission on Saturday, demanded implementation of all the reforms in the constitution, electoral system, judiciary, public administration, police and Anti-Corruption Commission before the next general election.

www.newagebd.net

REFORM DIALOGUE: Khelafat Majlis for all reforms before polls
Staff Correspondent 22 March, 2025, 23:57

Khelafat Majlis central leaders, while meeting the National Consensus Commission on Saturday, demanded implementation of all the reforms in the constitution, electoral system, judiciary, public administration, police and Anti-Corruption Commission before the next general election.

At the LD Hall of the national parliament building in Dhaka city, they sat with the commission members in the second dialogue for political parties’ consensus on the recommendations by the reform commissions in the six areas and institutions.

The vice president of the consensus commission, Professor Ali Riaz, chaired the dialogue in which Khelafat Majlish secretary general Ahmad Abdul Kader led an eight-member team.

After the meeting, Kader told journalists that necessary reforms in the six areas would be well possible in the next 10 months if the political parties were sincere.

He, however, said that his party did not feel the necessity of a constituent assembly to adopt reforms.

He said that his party disagreed with the constitution reform commission-proposed ‘pluralism’ and suggested that the consensus commission should uphold ‘having faith in Allah’ as the fundamental principle of the constitution.

Khelafat Majlis suggested that the constitution must prohibit laws that violate Islamic laws.

‘We recommend direct elections for the 400 seats of lower house, instead of keeping 100 seats reserved for women, as proposed by two reform commissions,’ Kader said.

Of the 166-point key recommendations sent to the political parties, Khelafat Majlis agreed with 140 points, partially disagreed with 10 points and disagreed with 15 points.

Khelafat Majlis delegation included naib-e-ameer Ahmad Ali Qasemi, joint secretary general Mostafizur Rahman Faisal, Md Abdul Jalil and ABM Sirajul Mamun

In a separate meeting, a 13-member delegation from the Bangladesh Labour Party, led by its chairman Mostafizur Rahman Iran, participated in a dialogue with the consensus commission.

The party vice chairman and its Dhaka Metropolitan unit president SM Yusuf Ali, lawyer Johra Khatun Jui, Sylhet Metropolitan unit president Mahbubur Rahman Khaled, Chittagong Metropolitan unit president Md Alauddin Ali and Hinduratna Ramkrishna Saha, among others, were present.

Apart from Professor Riaz, consensus commission members Safar Raj Hossain, Justice Emdadul Haque, Iftekharuzzaman and Badiul Alam Majumdar along with the chief adviser’s special assistant Monir Haidar were present during the two dialogues.

Formed on February 12, the consensus commission is assigned to draft a consensus-based ‘National Charter’ by July this year.

On March 5, the commission sent a 166-point questionnaire to 38 political parties, requesting their feedback by March 13.

Till Saturday, the commission received feedback from 16 political parties, according to a press release.

Today, the commission is scheduled to hold talks with the Rashtra Sangskar Andolan.

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, Communist Party of Bangladesh and newly floated National Citizen Party are expected to submit their opinions on reform to the commission today.​

 

[Saif]

BNP opposes equating July 2024 Uprising with 1971 Liberation War in constitution

BNP on Sunday submitted its proposal to the National Consensus Commission on reforms

en.prothomalo.com

Reform proposals
BNP opposes equating July 2024 Uprising with 1971 Liberation War in constitution
UNB
Dhaka
Published: 23 Mar 2025, 18: 59

BNP flag Prothom Alo illustration

BNP on Sunday submitted its proposal to the National Consensus Commission on reforms, strongly opposing the inclusion of the July 2024 Uprising with same importance of the 1971 Liberation War in the preamble of the constitution.

The party also opposed other proposals, including changing the name of the state, curbing the powers of the Election Commission, and the formation of a national constitution council.

While the BNP agreed with the proposal to introduce a bicameral parliament and increase the number of reserved seats for women, it expressed differing views on the procedural aspects of these changes.

A three-member BNP delegation, led by Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, handed over the party's proposals to commission's Vice-Chairman Prof Dr Ali Riaz.

The BNP submitted written proposals regarding reforms in the Constitution, public administration, the judiciary, the electoral process and the Anti-Corruption Commission.

Speaking to reporters later, Salahuddin Ahmed said the preamble of the constitution has not been explicitly mentioned in the commission’s proposal. The preamble is a vital part of the Constitution and the commission's suggestion to completely alter or revise it is essentially akin to rewriting it, he said.

The BNP leader specifically objected to the proposal to equate the events of the 1971 Liberation War and the 2024 mass uprising within the same context.

He said BNP considers this inappropriate and suggested that such matters should either be addressed separately or placed in the schedule section of the Constitution.

Salahuddin also said BNP supports the preamble as it existed prior to the 15th Amendment, rejecting the current proposal to change it.

Regarding the suggestion to alter the state’s name in the Constitution, he said the people of Bangladesh have long accepted the country's name through practice.

The BNP leader argued that changing the name would not bring any substantial benefits and thus the party remains firmly opposed to this alteration.

About the proposals on election-related reforms, Salahuddin said their party thinks the independence of the Election Commission (EC) will be hampered if some of the recommendations of the Election System Reform Commission are implemented.

He said BNP believes that the power to determine the boundaries of parliamentary constituencies and the national identity card service should remain in the hands of the Election Commission. "If the NID is handed over to a separate independent institution, then the Election Commission will have to rely on that institution repeatedly for all assistance related to the NID. We think it should remain under the Election Commission."

The BNP leader also said their party does not agree with the proposal to grant the parliamentary standing committee the power to hold the Election Commission accountable. "We do not think the Election Commission, as an independent constitutional institution, should be held accountable in that manner."

Salahuddin said their party feels the interim government should focus on the national election, not a referendum. "We think the national parliamentary election should be held now, not a referendum. If a political government is established democratically through national elections first, all discussions can take place, and decisions can be made in parliament."

He also said their party does not believe a constituent assembly is necessary for the extensive reform of the constitution. "A constituent assembly is formed with representatives from various professions when a new state requires a constitution… our state is not new, and we already have a constitution, although its democratic character has been destroyed," the BNP leader said.

Since a new structure and democratic framework of the state needs to be built, he said they proposed significant amendments to the constitution.

“Those demanding a constituent assembly have also suggested 69 amendments. We’ve proposed fewer, but through discussion, we can reach a broad consensus and create a revised constitution. If they want to call it a new constitution, we have no objection. There’s no need for a constituent assembly," Salahuddin said.

Regarding the Anti-Corruption Commission reforms, he said there were about 20 proposals in the spreadsheet. "Out of those 20, we directly agreed with 11, and with 7 or 8, we agreed in principle with some comments. We opposed only one proposal."

About public administration reform, Salahuddin said there were proposals on 26 issues. "We agreed on nearly half of them, and for the remaining half, we have our opinions and comments. Through detailed discussions, we can reach a consensus on these matters."

About the Judiciary Reform Commission's proposals, he said their party agreed with almost all of the commission's proposals.

"In our 31-point proposal, we recommended ensuring full independence of the judiciary, including transferring control of lower courts to the Supreme Court by amending Article 116 of the Constitution. We also support the proposal for an independent secretariat for the Supreme Court. Regarding financial management, we’ve suggested detailed discussions on future budget matters," the BNP leader said.

He said they have proposed establishing a lower judicial council based on the Supreme Judicial Council model to ensure accountability in lower courts.

Salahuddin said they opposed proposals, especially the formation of a National Constitutional Council with unelected individuals. "The core principle of the constitution is that the state should be governed by elected representatives, and this would harm that principle."​

 

[Saif]

Reforms to bring fundamental transformation in Bangladesh: Chief Adviser

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has said that his interim government has initiated critical reforms to restore public trust in Bangladesh.

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Reforms to bring fundamental transformation in Bangladesh: Chief Adviser
BSS
Hainan, China
Updated: 27 Mar 2025, 13: 33

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus speaks at Boao Forum for Asia conference in Hainan on 27 March 2025 PID

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has said that his interim government has initiated critical reforms to restore public trust in Bangladesh.

"Our youth and citizens demonstrated exceptional resolve and strength to redefine the future of Bangladesh. To restore public trust we have initiated critical reforms," he said while addressing the opening plenary of Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) conference in China Today, Thursday.

The theme of the conference is "Asia in the Changing World: Towards a Shared Future."

Professor Yunus said independent commissions have been launched to reform the electoral system, judiciary, civil administration, and law enforcement.

"These reforms, when implemented, will bring about fundamental transformation of our nation," he added.

The chief adviser said: "As we build a new Bangladesh, we face multiple challenges which are shared by other Asian countries."

In particular global financial market instability, political uncertainties, diplomatic tensions, and trade disruptions create volatility, he said.

He said rising interest rates and debt servicing costs are deepening Asia's debt crisis.

Professor Yunus said despite global commitments to the 2030 Agenda, progress is slow. Only 24 per cent of SDG have been met.

He mentioned that developing Asian countries face an SDG financing gap of 2.5 to 4 trillion US dollars annually.

Beyond SDG financing, Asia also needs large scale investments in infrastructure and economic diversification through responsible financing, he said.

The Chief Adviser said Bangladesh has been a victim of corruption and illicit financial flows, while these corrupt practices cost developing countries an estimated 1 trillion US dollar annually which is multiple times more than the total ODA they receive.

He said Asia should stand united to establish a multilateral mediation mechanism for asset recovery and return.

"Food security is under increasing pressure. Rising prices of essential commodities are straining household budgets, especially for low-income families," Professor Yunus said.

Climate change and natural disasters are exacerbating this crisis, he said, adding that strengthening food supply chains is essential.

He said energy security is critical, especially for net-importing developing countries, while energy supply disruptions drive inflation, economic instability, and debt distress.

"We must find sustainable energy solutions and scale up investments in renewables," he added.

The Chief Adviser stressed investing in health and education for human capital development. Countries that invest in universal healthcare see better economic productivity, he noted.

Digital education and vocational training must be expanded to equip our youth for the jobs in future, he asserted.

About global crisis, Professor Yunus said geopolitical tensions are rising; climate change is escalating; debt burdens are unsustainable; and humanitarian crises are growing.

Political will for development cooperation is weakening, while the world faces an alarming shortfall in collective action, he said.

The chief adviser observed that Asia, home to 60 per cent of the global population and 55 per cent of global GDP, was at the center of these changes.

He said emerging norms, regulations, and technologies are reshaping governance and economic policies.

"Assumptions that shaped policies a decade ago are no longer relevant. The need for regional and global cooperation has never been more pressing," Professor Yunus added.

Former UN Secretary-General and Chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia Ban Ki-moon, Executive Vice Premiere of the State Council of the People's Republic of China Ding Xuexiang and Secretary General of Boao Forum for Asia Zhang Jun also spoke on the occasion.

Yunus for economic models prioritising people, planet

The chief adviser also stressed shifting toward sustainable economic models prioritising people and the planet over profits.

"We must shift toward sustainable economic models that prioritise people and the planet over profits," he said.

Professor Yunus said human civilisation is at risk as people continue to embrace self-destructive economic values.

The dominant economic model thrives on limitless consumption and it justifies over-extraction of resources and environmental degradation in the name of growth, he said.

Mentioning that the climate crisis poses an existential threat to humanity, the chief adviser said in Asia-pacific region, climate disaster-related economic losses are already enormous, which is equivalent to USS 65 billion.

He said climate vulnerable countries like Bangladesh are forced to divert resources toward disaster response, limiting investments in productive sectors.

"We need new, additional, accessible, non-ODA, non-debt-creating, grant-based climate finance, with an equitable distribution between adaptation and mitigation," he added.

Professor Yunus said universal access to life-saving medicines and technologies must be guaranteed.

He said the COVID-19 pandemic was a wake-up call, highlighting deep inequities in global health systems. Asia should take a united stance in the ongoing negotiation of the Pandemic Treaty, he said.

Pointing out the advancement of technology, Professor Yunus said, Rapid strides in data driven technology, robotics, quantum computing and artificial intelligence, are shaping the world.

Lower capability, capacity, and resource mobilisation in Asia compared to advanced economies, could further widen digital divide, he observed.

Data sovereignty and security is a critical concern, he said, adding that, if technology evolves irresponsibly, it could pose existential risks.

Asia must close the digital divide and build regional capacity in technology, innovation and incubation, he added.​

 

[Saif]

BNP opposes changes to fundamental principles of Constitution

The BNP has expressed its opposition to the recommendation of the Constitutional Reform Commission, which proposes excluding nationalism, socialism, and secularism from the fundamental principles of the Constitution and the core principles of state governance. The party believes that a more...

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Reform commission recommendations

BNP opposes changes to fundamental principles of Constitution
Selim Zahid
Dhaka
Updated: 27 Mar 2025, 17: 44

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has expressed its opposition to the recommendations of the Constitutional Reform Commission, which proposes excluding nationalism, socialism, and secularism from the fundamental principles of the Constitution and the core principles of state governance.

The party believes that a more reasonable approach would be to restore Articles 8, 9, 10, and 12 of the Constitution to their pre-15th Amendment status.

BNP conveyed its stance in response to the Constitutional Reform Commission’s recommendations, which were submitted to the National Consensus Commission earlier this week.

Additionally, last Sunday, BNP submitted detailed opinions on the recommendations of five different reform commissions, including those related to constitutional changes.

According to relevant sources, BNP has supported maintaining the National Parliament’s term at five years, rejecting the reform commission’s recommendation to reduce it to four years. The party also opposes the proposal that the Prime Minister cannot simultaneously serve as the head of a political party and the Leader of Parliament.

BNP argues that such matters should be left to the discretion of the political party in question. In its explanation, BNP stated that whether one or multiple individuals hold the positions of Prime Minister or Leader of the House should be a party decision, and imposing constitutional restrictions on this matter would contradict the fundamental principles of parliamentary democracy.

The Constitutional Reform Commission has also proposed incorporating equality, human dignity, social justice, pluralism, and democracy as fundamental constitutional principles.

The proposal emphasises that Bangladesh is a pluralistic, multi-ethnic, multi-religious, multilingual, and multicultural country, where the rights and dignity of all communities should be upheld.

However, BNP has disagreed with this recommendation, reiterating its stance that Articles 8, 9, 10, and 12 should be restored to their pre-15th Amendment form.

Article 8 of the Constitution currently states: “Nationalism, socialism, democracy, and secularism - these principles, along with all other principles derived from them, shall be considered the fundamental principles of the state.”

Meanwhile, Articles 9, 10, and 12 address nationalism, the establishment of a socialist economic system, and the implementation of secularism, respectively.

BNP maintains that these articles should revert to their pre-15th Amendment status. The 15th Amendment to the Constitution was passed by the National Parliament on 30 June 2011, during the Awami League government, effectively abolishing the caretaker government system.

Writer and researcher Mohiuddin Ahmed views BNP’s position on state principles as being driven by party interests.

Speaking to Prothom Alo, he stated that BNP’s demand reflects the constitutional framework as it existed when they were last in power.

He pointed out that BNP does not advocate for restoring the four fundamental principles of the 1972 Constitution but rather seeks to reinstate the changes made through the 1976 ordinance. In that year, Ziaur Rahman removed the four original state principles of the 1972 Constitution through an executive order.

Regarding the Declaration of a State of Emergency

BNP also disagrees with the recommendations made by the Constitutional Reform Commission concerning the declaration of a state of emergency. The commission’s recommendation states that the President may declare a state of emergency only after receiving approval from the National Constitutional Commission (NCC).

However, BNP argues that since the declaration of a state of emergency is closely tied to the executive authority of the government, this power should not be vested in any entity other than the government and parliament.

The Reform Commission also recommends that during a state of emergency, no citizen’s rights should be revoked or suspended, and the right to seek legal recourse in court should not be restricted or abolished.

To implement this, the Commission proposes repealing Article 141(b) and Article 141(c) of the Constitution. BNP opposes this proposal, stating that the recommendation fails to clarify the purpose of declaring a state of emergency if no citizen’s rights are to be revoked or suspended.

Term of caretaker government

The Constitutional Reform Commission’s recommendation has called for a caretaker government term of three months. But the Electoral Reform Commission has proposed a four-month term for the caretaker government. It has recommended holding all local government elections before the national elections during this period.

Disagreeing with this, the BNP said that the caretaker government is an exceptional system in the context of the reality of Bangladesh. The constitutional provision of running the state through the people’s representatives. Therefore, in this case, it is advisable to have a caretaker government for a period of 90 days as was in the past. The main responsibility of this government is to hold a fair and acceptable parliamentary election. During this period, only national parliamentary elections are necessary, not any other elections. There is no opportunity to hold local government elections before the parliamentary elections.

Agreement on a bicameral legislature

A review of BNP’s stance on the Constitutional Reform Commission’s recommendations reveals that the party opposes lowering the minimum age for contesting parliamentary elections to 21 years. It also disagrees with the proposal that the Prime Minister should be nominated with the support of the majority of members in the lower house of the legislature.

However, BNP supports the proposal to nominate one of the two deputy speakers of parliament from the opposition party. Additionally, the party wants the sole deputy speaker of the upper house to be elected from outside the ruling party.

BNP also agrees in principle with the introduction of a bicameral legislature. However, it believes that the recommended four-year term for both the upper and lower houses should be extended to five years.

The constitutional amendment proposal suggests that any amendment must be approved by a two-thirds majority in both houses and then put to a referendum.

BNP opposes this, arguing that it is impractical to subject all constitutional amendments to a referendum. Instead, the party believes it would be sufficient to restore Article 142 to its pre-15th Amendment status.

BNP suggests that a bill passed in the lower house could be sent back for reconsideration, with or without recommendations from the upper house. The party maintains that constitutional reforms should be implemented by the parliament elected after the national elections.

Position on the term of President and Prime Minister

The proposal states in the section on the President that the term of office will be four years and that no individual may hold the position for more than two terms. BNP does not agree with this recommendation, stating that it would be more appropriate for the President to serve a five-year term.

The party also argues that this recommendation is unnecessary, as the existing Constitution already limits the President’s tenure to a maximum of two terms.

In the section on the Prime Minister, the reform commission’s proposal states that the Prime Minister will be nominated with the support of the majority of members in the lower house of the legislature.

BNP disagrees with this recommendation, arguing that since there is no direct election for the position of Prime Minister, the concept of nomination is irrelevant. The party maintains that the selection of the Prime Minister should be based on existing parliamentary procedures rather than an additional nomination process.

The Prime Minister’s section further states that if the Prime Minister voluntarily resigns before the end of the legislature’s term, loses a vote of confidence, or advises the President to dissolve the legislature for any other reason, then the President shall dissolve both houses of parliament only if it is evident that no other member of the lower house is able to secure the necessary majority support to form a government. BNP disagrees with this recommendation.

BNP argues that this proposal is unnecessary, as Article 57(2) of the Constitution already provides a clear framework regarding the dissolution of parliament in such cases.

According to this article, “If the Prime Minister loses the support of a majority of the members of Parliament, he shall resign or advise the President in writing to dissolve Parliament. If the President is satisfied that no other member of Parliament holds the support of the majority, he shall dissolve Parliament.”

BNP maintains that this provision is sufficient and does not require further modification.

Additionally, the reform commission’s proposal states that an individual may serve as Prime Minister for a maximum of two terms, either consecutively or at different times.

BNP disagrees with this, arguing that it would be sufficient to specify that “no person shall be considered eligible to be appointed as Prime Minister for a third consecutive term.”

About the High Court

The Constitutional Reform Commission has recommended the introduction of a permanent High Court seat in all divisions of the country with equal jurisdiction to the High Court Division. This recommendation falls under the Supreme Court section of the judiciary.

However, BNP opposes this proposal, arguing that establishing a permanent High Court Division seat in all divisions of the country conflicts with the basic structure of the Constitution.

As an alternative, the party suggests that a circuit bench of the High Court Division can be established outside Dhaka under Article 100 of the Constitution.

The commission has also recommended adding a provision to the Constitution to institutionalise the appointment of the most senior judge from the Appellate Division as the Chief Justice.

BNP partially agrees with this proposal. The party stated in its opinion that, considering the ‘doctrine of necessity,’ the obligation to appoint the Chief Justice should be imposed from among the three most senior judges instead.

BNP Standing Committee Member Salah Uddin Ahmed told Prothom Alo, “Separate proposals were submitted to the Reform Commission on all key issues, including the Constitution, Election Commission, and public administration, from BNP. However, we have observed that most of BNP’s proposals were not reflected in the commission’s recommendations. That is why we have provided detailed opinions along with the commission’s spreadsheet and have also included explanations on relevant issues to avoid confusion.”

The BNP leader, who was involved in drafting the party’s reform proposals, further stated that the responsibility for amending the Constitution lies with the elected government.

He emphasised that any constitutional amendment must take place only after an election, as the elected government should be the one to introduce and implement such changes in parliament.

*This report, originally published in the print and online edition of Prothom Alo, has been rewritten in English by Farjana Liakat​

 

[Saif]

Chief adviser calls for advancing reform activities quickly

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, also the Chairman of the National Consensus Commission, has called for advancing reform activities quickly with the goal of holding the national elections in December next. He made this call at a meeting with two members of the Consensus Commission at the St

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Chief adviser calls for advancing reform activities quickly
BSS
Published :
Apr 12, 2025 20:51
Updated :
Apr 12, 2025 20:51

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, also the Chairman of the National Consensus Commission, has called for advancing reform activities quickly with the goal of holding the national elections in December next.

He made this call at a meeting with two members of the Consensus Commission at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka on Saturday afternoon.

National Consensus Commission Vice-Chairman Professor Ali Riaz and its member Dr Badiul Alam Majumder joined the meeting.

Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser (Consensus Building) Monir Haider was present on the occasion.

At the meeting, Professor Ali Riaz and Dr. Badiul Alam Majumder informed the Commission chief of the progress of the Commission's activities.

Separate discussions are underway with political parties on the recommendations of the reform commissions of the interim government, they said.

Discussions have so far been completed with eight political parties, they said, adding that a meeting is scheduled to be held with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Thursday.

They also informed that various programmes have been taken to take public opinions on the reform agendas and create public awareness on reforms.

At the time, Commission Chairman and Chief Adviser Prof Yunus stressed holding talks with the political parties and moving the overall reform process forward with the aim of holding the national elections in December next.​