Dhaka: National Consensus Commission Vice-Chairman Professor Dr. Ali Riaz has stated that the national election in December this year appears feasible as political parties have committed to undertaking a reform process. “I am optimistic that in major ways it (reforms) can be done. It is not impossible, and I am more optimistic because of the commitment of the political parties,” he told BSS in an exclusive interview in Dhaka.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Riaz, who also led the interim government’s Constitution Reforms Commission, expressed a need for optimism despite some skepticism. An academic who teaches political science and international politics in the United States, Riaz emphasized that it is not just political parties but also the people of Bangladesh who are eager for the election, as they have not been able to vote in the past 17 years.
He highlighted that Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and his interim government do not intend to extend their tenure unnecessarily. The seven-member National Consensus Commission, led by Professor Yunus, was established on February 13 to engage political parties in discussions about reform recommendations from six commissions focusing on major sectors, including the constitution and election system.
The Consensus Commission seeks to build agreement on political, constitutional, and electoral reform agendas and held its first meeting with political parties on February 15. Riaz, as the vice chair, voiced hope for a swift consensus on reform issues.
The commission’s action plan involves providing political parties with the full reports of the six commissions, which have been submitted to the Chief Adviser. Political parties are expected to evaluate these reports, identify key proposals, and determine which recommendations are essential for implementation.
Though no specific deadline has been set for completing this task, both the Consensus Commission and political parties recognize its urgency. Riaz emphasized the importance of meaningful discussions rather than rushing the process, noting that the Consensus Commission has a six-month timeframe to reach a consensus on reform issues.
Riaz explained that if major parties agree on a constitutional reform proposal, it can be set aside as agreed upon, allowing focus on other areas with divergent opinions. The political parties may also propose alternative solutions aligning with their policies and governance plans, as governance ultimately rests with elected representatives.
The political scientist noted that once key agreements are reached, the process would culminate in a national charter, guiding any future government. This charter will inform the public of political party agreements, ensuring transparency and accountability.
The Consensus Commission will collaborate with parties to determine which reforms should be implemented before the next election, which should be addressed by the new parliament, and whether certain decisions could be made through referendums. The commission’s role is to facilitate discussions and help parties chart a way forward, though “there is no single pathway,” Riaz said.
Political parties will decide which reforms to pursue, and their agreed-upon recommendations will be made public through a dedicated website to engage citizens. Riaz emphasized the importance of citizen engagement, though direct public input mechanisms are yet to be determined.
Regarding speculations about political consensus on reform proposals, Riaz encouraged a forward-looking approach, stating, “Let’s not be prisoners of the past.” He acknowledged Bangladesh’s past struggles with political consensus but pointed to successful agreements, such as the caretaker government system.
He highlighted the unprecedented nature of Bangladesh’s current political climate, where all parties recognize the need for reform due to past challenges and a recent mass uprising claiming over 1,400 lives. While the extent of commitment by parties may vary, Riaz stressed the need to facilitate discussions and find common ground.
Riaz suggested that political parties must ensure accountability for reform proposals post-election, with the ultimate goal of establishing a binding national charter adhered to by all parties. He emphasized the separation of ongoing national consensus negotiations from the potential banning of the Awami League, which involves judicial and governmental processes.
Riaz cited the Awami League’s historical ideological concerns from its rule in 1972-75 and again under Sheikh Hasina from 2009-2024. He stressed that these issues should not derail necessary structural reforms.
Riaz, who headed the constitution reform commission, stated that their recommendations require national consensus and a clear process rather than imposition through an executive order. He emphasized the need for broad political support for proposals like forming a bicameral parliament and a national constitutional council.
Riaz concluded that parties should first decide on necessary reforms before debating implementation, advocating for a national charter as the initial step.