Quick reforms, timely elections stressed in CGS dialogue

Speakers, including politicians, academics, and members of civil society, at a dialogue on Saturday emphasised the need for quick reforms and holding timely elections.

They spoke at an event titled ‘Dialogue for Democratic Reconstruction’ arranged by the Centre for Governance Studies at the Khulna Press Club, said a press release.

CGS executive director Zillur Rahman said that everyone had to have the freedom to express their views to build a democratic state.

‘The consequences of silencing voices were evident on August 5. Now, there is a strong public desire for change and national reconstruction, which must be harnessed positively,’ he added.

Professor Muhammad Masud, vice-chancellor of Khulna University of Engineering and Technology, said that they had already seen positive changes, and those had to continue.

‘Urgent reforms are required in the judiciary and electoral systems, followed by national elections,’ he added.

Former president of Khulna District Bar Association Sheikh Abdul Aziz said that autocratic governments often created self-serving laws to protect their interests. ‘We must escape this cycle and ensure proper enforcement of existing laws.’

Azizul Bari Helal, information secretary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, emphasised the party’s 31-point proposal for state reform.

He stated that the proposal was dynamic and would adapt to national needs as necessary.

Helal criticised the inclusion of ‘pluralism’ in the Constitution, asserting that Bangladeshi nationalism already encompassed all communities.

He also criticised the recommendation to mandate 10 per cent youth participation in elections, calling it impractical.

News Courtesy:

New Age | Quick reforms, timely elections stressed in CGS dialogue