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

[Saif]

PRC suggests changing metropolitan police commissioner’s power in prohibiting rallies

The Police Reform Commission (PRC) has suggested restricting the authority of police commissioner to prohibit people’s right to hold assembly or procession as majority respondents in a survey have considered such right as vital for flourishing country’s democratic environment. “S

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

PRC suggests changing metropolitan police commissioner’s power in prohibiting rallies
BSS
Published :
Dec 08, 2024 23:46
Updated :
Dec 08, 2024 23:46

The Police Reform Commission (PRC) has suggested restricting the authority of police commissioner to prohibit people’s right to hold assembly or procession as majority respondents in a survey have considered such right as vital for flourishing country’s democratic environment.

“Some 71.2 per cent respondents want to change this provision of the police administration to sustain the rights of holding assembly or procession to flourish the country’s democratic environment,” according to a recent public survey conducted by the PRC.

In accordance with the section 29 of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Ordinance, 1976, the Police Commissioner may, by order in writing, prohibit any assembly or procession whenever and for so long as he considers such prohibition to be necessary for the preservation of the public peace or safety: provided that no such prohibition shall remain in force for more than thirty days without the sanction of the Government.

Although there is no provision of taking prior permission for holding assembly or procession in the ordinance, prior police permission is required to this respect.

As many as 24,442 individuals took part in the survey and 17,411 want amendment to the provision while 7031 (28.8 percent) do not want any change to the provision.

Some 51.8 percent respondents have considered taking prior permission for holding rallies from the Metropolitan Police Commissioner as an adversary of the basic rights as Article 37 of the Constitution has guaranteed holding assembly and procession as basic rights.

However, 37.4 respondents have expressed their disagreement while 10.8 percent are doubtful or hesitant about the opinion.

The public survey titled ‘What kind of police do we want (kemon police chai)’ was carried out in the wake of recent criticism in Bangladesh and around the world about the violent role of some police personnel in suppressing the anti-discrimination student movement.

To that end, the interim government formed the 'Police Reform Commission' to reform the police force.

In replying to a question on how the allegations of human rights violation and misusing of power by police should be investigated, 60 percent of 24,442 the people taking part in the survey, recommended forming a complete investigation commission to pursue the matter.

While 20 percent of them have suggested formation of a permanent investigation commission led by a retired justice of the High Court division and 20 percent wanted to investigate into the allegation by the National Human Rights Commission by amending the relevant law of 2009.

The country needs a law-abiding, corruption and political influence free independent police to maintain law and order equally for the people irrespective of their identity, the survey said.

“Some 89.5 percent people opined to stop use police force for political purposes and 77.9 percent want police not to indulge in corruption by misusing power,” it also said.

Apart from these, 74.9 percent opined to bring police under accountability for violations of rights that include enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.

The survey is now available on the website of the Police Reform Commission (www.prc.mhapsd.gov.bd), said a press release of the home ministry.

The Police Reform Commission has received recommendations from 24,442 individuals of different sections following its request to submit their opinions by November 15, 2024.​

 

[Saif]

UN vows support for interim govt’s reform commissions

The UN stands ready to support the interim government's reform commissions, assist in accessing innovative financing mechanisms, and strengthen data systems to seize this moment for long-term sustainable development, UN Resident Coordinator Gwyn Lewis said yesterday

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UN vows support for interim govt’s reform commissions

The UN stands ready to support the interim government's reform commissions, assist in accessing innovative financing mechanisms, and strengthen data systems to seize this moment for long-term sustainable development, UN Resident Coordinator Gwyn Lewis said yesterday.

"Our collective efforts will focus on creating a sustainable economic transformation, inclusive, essential services, bolstering climate resilience, enhanced governance framework, and driving gender equality across all sectors," she said.

She made the comment at a joint steering committee convened by the government of Bangladesh and the UN Country Team today to review progress on the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (Cooperation Framework) and discuss priorities for 2025.

The meeting also addressed critical issues regarding implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Bangladesh's graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.

"To successfully graduate from LDC status, we must embrace a new era of collaboration focused on advancements in science, technology, and artificial intelligence in Bangladesh," said Shahriar Kader Siddiky, secretary of the Economic Relations Division.

The UN acknowledged the significant changes in Bangladesh in recent months and reaffirmed its support for the interim government's evolving priorities, particularly in reform commissions focused on issues such as elections, policing, anti-corruption, and human rights, said UN Resident Coordinator's Office at a statement.

To address the SDG priorities in the context of the broader development agenda, participation was expanded to include several senior government officials.

Co-chaired by Gwyn Lewis, the meeting was attended by representatives from twenty-eight line ministries, eighteen UN agencies, JSC members, and senior government officials, including the Principal Coordinator (SDG Affairs), the Planning Secretary, and the Member of the General Economics Division (GED).

The Cooperation Framework (2022-2026) outlines UN support to Bangladesh in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 8th Five-Year Plan across five strategic priorities.

In 2024, the JSC reviewed progress across key areas. The UN has supported Bangladesh's economic transformation through various initiatives.

The UN also mobilized significant aid in response to Cyclone Remal and widespread flooding, notably deploying early warning systems that helped millions prepare.

Collaboration with national commissions continued critical reforms in areas like policing, elections, and anti-corruption, in tandem with support for the government in strengthening legal protections for women and promoting gender equality.

Looking ahead to 2025, the JSC identified key policy support and capacity-building interventions to accelerate SDG progress, emphasising integrated policy, financing, and programming at scale, focusing on Leaving No One Behind.

The meeting also identified several key policies and interventions to support Bangladesh's development in its new political context.​

 

[Saif]

Japan for reforms to combat corruption

Japan is eager to see reforms that eliminate corruption and improve governance, which are key factors for Japanese companies to invest in Bangladesh, said Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Iwama Kiminori.

www.thedailystar.net

Japan for reforms to combat corruption
Envoy says

Iwama Kiminori

Japan is eager to see reforms that eliminate corruption and improve governance, which are key factors for Japanese companies to invest in Bangladesh, said Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Iwama Kiminori.

"The interim government's top priority is eliminating corruption and reducing bureaucratic redundancy. This is a key element for Japanese companies to invest here," he told The Daily Star in a recent interview.

Kiminori is leaving Dhaka after a two-year tenure and will assume a new post as ambassador to a European country.

He informed that Japan has been closely observing the condition of law and order, peace and stability in Bangladesh since the political changeover in August.

"I believe the internal security situation is stabilising. While there have been some incidents, I believe the interim government will tackle the issue in a positive way," Kiminori said, stressing on improvement of law and order.

Over the past 50 years, Japan has been Bangladesh's largest bilateral donor, providing about $27 billion since 1972. Bangladesh exports products worth more than $1 billion to Japan annually while imports amounted to about $2 billion in 2022-23.

The island nation is also supporting several major development projects in Bangladesh, including the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and the Matarbari Deep Sea Port. It is also providing technical and financial assistance for the Dhaka Metro Rail and the Araihazar Special Economic Zone in Narayanganj.

More than 350 Japanese companies operate in Bangladesh, and many more are eager to do so. The two countries are working to sign an Economic Partnership Agreement for bilateral trade after Bangladesh graduates from the least developed country club in 2026.

Kiminori said that a more favourable investment climate could attract many more Japanese companies.

"Bureaucracy, uncertainty, complicated procedures and corruption -- these are the issues for our companies. We are eager to see reforms by the interim government in these areas," he added.

Asked if the political transition in Bangladesh would impact Japan-Bangladesh relations, he replied: "Our stance is clear. We have consistently extended support, regardless of the government in power. We will continue to do so."

"We will see what is needed for the people of Bangladesh and development, like rural development and environment. We have been doing this, and we will continue to be a friend of Bangladesh," he said.

Regarding the progress of the deep-sea port project in Matarbari, Kiminori said that the power plant has already been established and the first phase of dredging is complete. Japan is planning to extend the project to a second phase, for which the government has already agreed.

Asked if Japanese-funded projects are facing any difficulties due to the political changeover, he said the third terminal of Dhaka airport, the metro rail and Matarbari projects are ongoing. Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Line 6 is being utilised quite well and Japan is currently discussing MRT Lines 1 and 6 with Bangladesh.

"The interim government has shown positive interest in continuing other lines. While there may be some challenges, I see positive signs for the continuation of the existing MRT project. Sooner or later, we will need to complete them," he said.

"In that sense, we are ready to continue existing projects. For new projects, we need to discuss with the interim government," Kiminori added.

Japan was discussing an industrial value chain connecting Chattogram, Northeast India, Nepal and Bhutan.

When asked about this, Kiminori said: "We will continue the discussions. We have to identify the priorities of the new government. If they still consider it a priority, we will proceed accordingly.

"We would like to explore the possibility of connectivity in all directions, not just India and Bangladesh, but also Nepal and Bhutan. This is a key element to your development of the deep-sea port."​

 

[Saif]

WB pledges support for Bangladesh's key reform initiatives

World Bank Country Director for Bangladesh Abdoulaye Seck on Monday reaffirmed the institution's commitment to supporting key reform initiatives undertaken by Bangladesh's interim government. Seck said this when he made a farewell call on Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest H

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

WB pledges support for Bangladesh's key reform initiatives
UNB
Published :
Dec 23, 2024 19:53
Updated :
Dec 23, 2024 19:53

World Bank Country Director for Bangladesh Abdoulaye Seck on Monday reaffirmed the institution's commitment to supporting key reform initiatives undertaken by Bangladesh's interim government.

Seck said this when he made a farewell call on Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna.

The Chief Adviser thanked Seck, who is retiring in January, for support during his tenure at World Bank-supported projects in critical sectors like infrastructure, climate resilience, service process digitalisation, education, healthcare and poverty alleviation.

Seck told the Chief Adviser that the World Bank approved nearly $1.2 billion in three financings on December 19 to help Bangladesh build climate resilience and environmental sustainability while improving health, nutrition and water and sanitation services in Chattogram city.

On Sunday, the Economic Relations Division (ERD) and the World Bank signed two financings totalling $900 million.

One of the projects will develop secondary cities by constructing climate-resilient and gender-responsive infrastructure along the economic corridor from Cox's Bazar in the south to Panchagarh in the north.

The other financing, a $500 million development policy credit to support green growth, will be disbursed to the national treasury by this month.

The World Bank's development portfolio stands at about $ 45 billion since 1972, which has made a significant contribution to the development trajectory of Bangladesh, particularly in reducing poverty, ensuring sustained economic growth, and improving education, health, and disaster management.

The Chief Adviser wished Seck and his family good health on his retirement.

Special Envoy to Chief Adviser Lutfey Siddiqi, senior secretary for SDG affairs Lamiya Morshed and ERD secretary Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky were among others present on the occasion.​

 

[Saif]

Separating policy, revenue in NBR top reform priority

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) should not both formulate policies and collect revenue, rather a separate, independent and specialised policy wing should be formed, recommended an advisory committee recently. .This should be the first priority when bringing about reforms, said the co

www.thedailystar.net

Separating policy, revenue in NBR top reform priority
Advisory committee tells interim govt

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) should not both formulate policies and collect revenue, rather a separate, independent and specialised policy wing should be formed, recommended an advisory committee recently.

This should be the first priority when bringing about reforms, said the committee in a proposal to the interim government last week.

The five-member advisory committee was formed by the finance ministry on October 9 to bring about reforms in the NBR, such as speeding up revenue collection and improving services for taxpayers.

The advisory committee members include two former chairmen of the NBR, Muhammad Abdul Mazid and Nasiruddin Ahmed, former income tax members Md Delwar Hossain and Aminur Rahman, and former customs member Farid Uddin.

The separation proposal had also come from International Monetary Fund (IMF) as a part of its $4.7 billion loan programmes.

Businesses have been advocating for the separation for years, citing that otherwise it created an "autocratic" mindset in the NBR.

Since the NBR works with a revenue collection target, it inevitably ends up formulating policies more inclined towards achieving the target and this ends up ignoring detrimental effects that those policies have on taxpayers, explained the businesses.

A white paper committee led by economist Debapriya Bhattacharya, which was formed recently on unearthing the state of the economy, had also spoken on the issue.

"By creating a dedicated policy unit within the Ministry of Finance, the NBR can focus on efficient collection and enforcement, leaving strategic tax policy formulation to a specialised team," it stated.

Earlier, the NBR officials of both customs and tax departments also requested the creation of an "Independent Policy Commission".

However, they emphasised that its officials should be chosen from among them, as the job necessitates having prior experience working in their departments.

"We have recommended it following discussions with businesspeople, development partners and NBR officials to make a better tax system," said one of the advisory committee members yesterday, seeking anonymity.

"Although everybody has welcomed the proposal, the state should be very careful when implementing the proposal. Otherwise, it would not be fruitful," he said.

In 2008, the then caretaker had undertaken the same reform initiative. Later, the elected government did not adopt the suggestion, he said.

"It will depend on the desire of the government," he added.

"We won't explain anything now," said Muhammad Abdul Mazid, a member of the advisory committee.

"We are working (on formulating a number of reform proposals). It will continue as the interim government didn't give any timeframe (with a deadline). We have just submitted our proposal on a single item or issue," he said.

"Our next priority will be automation," he said.

Declining to comment on policy issues, Md Farid Uddin, another member of the advisory committee, said they were now giving a lot of focus on automation.

"Policy separation is one of several reform priorities of the NBR. Even larger issues, such as digitalisation and integration, remain to be addressed," he said.

"Our prime goal is to simplify the tax policy and ensure integration among all stakeholders," he said.

"Although this initiative is a massive task, it will bring immense changes to the tax systems, which will help to reduce tax evasion," he added.

Welcoming the separation suggestion, Shaikh Shamim Bulbul, general secretary of BCS Taxation Association, said, "As a specialised division, we, both taxes and customs officials, have urged to form an independent and separate 'Policy Commission'."

This is to ensure an effective tax system, he said, adding, "We hope the advisory committee has accepted our proposal…We want to see its execution soon," he added.​