Commission to turn July uprising hopes into national charter: Ali Riaz

The National Consensus Commission seeks to transform the aspirations of the July–August mass uprising into a concrete national charter, said the commission's Vice-Chairman, Professor Ali Riaz, during a dialogue today.

"We want to reflect the spirit of national consensus in a national charter, so that every political party can contribute to achieving its goals in the future," he said at a discussion with Bangladesher Samajtantrik Dal (BSD), held at the LD Hall of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban.

An 11-member BSD delegation, led by its General Secretary Bazlur Rashid Firoz, participated in the talks.

Chairing the session, Prof Ali Riaz said the commission's reform initiative is rooted in the long-standing expectations of the Bangladeshi people.

"The commission wants to give shape to the aspirations revealed during the July–August mass uprising," he said.

He noted that the current political landscape is the outcome of prolonged struggles by citizens and political forces alike.

"The people of this country do not want a recurring return of fascism. We aim to build a state founded on equality, where citizens' rights are ensured and differing views are respected."

Prof Ali Riaz further stated that the commission is engaging with political parties to build national consensus, guided by the recommendations of various reform commissions.

"This responsibility does not lie with the National Consensus Commission alone. Political parties must move forward by reflecting the aspirations of the people," he added.

Commission members present at the discussion included Justice Md Emdadul Haque, Badiul Alam Majumdar, Safar Raj Hossain, Iftekharuzzaman, and Md Ayub Miah.

The dialogue was moderated by Chief Adviser's Special Assistant, Monir Haider.