The Constitutional Reform Commission will bring together views and suggestions from various stakeholders to shape its reform recommendations, Ali Riaz, chairman of the commission, said today (November 3).

Speaking at a press conference at the LD Hall of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, Riaz said the commission plans to take feedback from citizens through a website, which is expected to go live on Tuesday (November 5).

“The commission will contact political parties, requesting written opinions and specific proposals. The government will then hold discussions with political parties regarding the recommendations received from the commission,” he added.

Riaz clarified that the commission will not directly engage in discussions with political parties; however, each written proposal and opinion submitted by them will be carefully considered.

The commission will endeavor to incorporate relevant information from these contributions into its final recommendations, he said.

The eminent political analyst further mentioned that the commission will collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders including constitutional scholars, lawyers, civil society representatives, eminent personalities, professional organizations, young thinkers, cultural organizations , the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and the National Citizen Committee.

He noted that the commission would seek written proposals and begin discussions with these groups starting next week.

Riaz noted that the commission decided not to implicate individuals, organizations or groups that directly or indirectly supported the killings and oppression during the July-August mass uprising.

He stressed that the scope of the reform would encompass a comprehensive review of the current constitution, including amendments, additions, deletions, rearrangements and possible rewriting to align with public aspirations.

During the briefing, Riaz presented the objectives of constitutional reform, including respect for the ideals of equality, human dignity and social justice, as promised during the struggle for independence in 1971, and the establishment of ‘a non-discriminatory democratic state system in light of the 2024 deadline. student uprising and reflects public aspirations for a participatory democratic state as expressed through the 2024 student movement.

He also stressed the need to create mechanisms for effective citizen participation in politics and governance at all levels, in order to prevent the emergence of any future fascist regimes and ensure the separation and balance of powers between the three branches of government – ​​executive, legislative. and judicial – and promote decentralization and empower state institutions while taking necessary measures to guarantee the independence and autonomy of state, constitutional and statutory bodies.