The National Consensus Commission, led by Vice-Chairman Professor Ali Riaz, has finalized a preliminary national charter draft, which will be shared with political parties on July 28, 2025. This announcement was made during a dialogue session at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, marking the 19th day of the commission’s second-phase discussions with political stakeholders. The charter aims to reflect the aspirations of the July-August 2024 uprising, focusing on democratic reforms and accountable governance.
Details of National Charter Draft
The draft incorporates consensus on key issues, including the formation of a Police Reform Commission, principles of state governance, and the expansion of citizens’ fundamental rights. While agreement has been reached on 10 issues, seven remain unresolved, with three yet to be discussed. Riaz emphasized that the draft will not be debated publicly unless significant objections arise, allowing parties to provide feedback for the final version. Posts on X indicate public anticipation for the charter, with many viewing it as a step toward preventing autocratic rule, though some express skepticism about achieving full consensus.
What’s Next
The commission, tasked with formulating the charter by July 31, 2025, seeks to create a roadmap for Bangladesh’s governance, drawing from extensive consultations with 33 political parties and civil society. The process reflects a commitment to transparency, with unresolved issues to be disclosed publicly to ensure inclusive dialogue.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 27th, 2025
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