Photo: Collected
Ali Riaz, vice-chairman of the National Consensus Commission, has stated that reforms to the existing structure are necessary. However, he emphasised that these reforms must be inclusive, taking into account political, governance, and other related issues.
He mentioned that without reform, it would not be possible to combat autocracy, leading to the return of misrule. He made these remarks on Thursday (March 20) at a roundtable discussion titled "Political Consensus and Citizens’ Thoughts on State Reform," held at the CIRDAP Auditorium in the capital. The event was organised by Citizens for Good Governance (Sushashoner Jonno Nagorik) and chaired by Sujan President Badiul Alam Majumdar.
Ali Riaz stated that in the past 16 years, autocracy has been consolidated and weak institutions have been destroyed. Due to the lack of proper democratic practices, fragile institutions were not allowed to develop, and the judiciary was deliberately undermined.
He added that the question might arise as to why reforms are necessary and who has proposed them. He explained that the proposals primarily stem from the people, from their frustration and protests. He stressed that without structural reforms to the existing system, autocracy will continue to re-emerge. Therefore, the need for reform is urgent.
He also mentioned that elections had been held under the guise of a farce, and the judiciary had been weakened to give the Prime Minister unchecked power, which is undemocratic. To break free from impunity, reforms are necessary. He assured that discussions with political parties on the reform process would continue, and national consensus would be developed through dialogue with all involved parties.
Messenger/JRTarek
