Assalamu Alaikum  

After nearly 16 years of blood-soaked struggle against fascism, the people of Bangladesh were finally freed from its grip through the unprecedented student-people uprising in July-August 2024. Now, the people eagerly await the fulfillment of their aspiration for a strong democratic state based on equality, human dignity, social justice, and the elimination of discrimination.  

Various proposals and opinions regarding post-fascism state reforms have emerged through the Reform Commission’s report. The foundation of these proposals was laid much earlier, on July 13, 2023, when BNP introduced its 31-point democratic reform framework. Now, it is crucial to adopt and implement these reform proposals through an inclusive alliance of democratic forces. A democratically elected parliament is the only appropriate forum to provide constitutional and legal legitimacy to these reforms.  

The existing national unity against fascism is the driving force of this country and its people. There is no alternative but to preserve and strengthen this unity to move forward. This unity must become an integral part of our political culture. We cannot take any steps that would weaken or fracture the anti-fascist national unity and people’s solidarity. Therefore, the interim government must maintain the highest level of neutrality. No group should be allowed to manipulate government policies for political gains.  

The purpose of reforms is to improve people’s quality of life, ensure the security of their lives and property, and establish accountability and the rule of law. Above all, the country’s independence and sovereignty must be safeguarded.  

There is no room for unnecessary debates over whether reforms should come before or after elections. Since reform is a continuous process, both reform and election processes can proceed simultaneously. Based on political consensus, a "Reform Charter" can be formulated, which the elected government will implement.  

At this stage, the main responsibility of the interim government is to quickly undertake necessary reforms through consensus and organize a free, fair, and credible national election. Once elected, the new government will complete the necessary reforms based on national consensus, as only an elected government accountable to the people can effectively implement just and acceptable reforms.  

Concerns have arisen because some advisors in the interim government are directly or indirectly involved in political party formation while in power. Increasing evidence suggests that the administrative machinery is being used in this process, which is alarming for both the country and democracy.  

The National Consensus Commission’s spreadsheet, which seeks checkmarks on various options, raises significant concerns. Issues that should have been presented as proposals have instead been framed as simple “Yes” or “No” questions. For example, instead of first determining whether we agree on implementing reforms through a Constituent Assembly, the question merely asks if we want it. Similarly, questions like whether we want reforms through a referendum, a Constituent Assembly, or a parliamentary legislative process require thoughtful deliberation rather than a simple Yes or No.  

The constitutional "Preamble," a critically important aspect highlighted in the Reform Commission’s recommendations, is missing from the spreadsheet. While the spreadsheet lists around 70 proposals, the original report contains approximately 123 recommendations. Similarly, the Election System Reform Commission’s original report included about 150 recommendations, whereas the spreadsheet mentions only 27, most of which are related to constitutional amendments. To avoid confusion, we believe that our opinions on the full recommendations should be attached to the spreadsheet.  

There appears to be a similarity between the spreadsheet’s content, statements from commission members, and remarks from certain political parties, raising concerns that the entire process might be part of a pre-planned agenda, the true purpose of which is unclear regarding democracy’s best interests.  

A review of the recommendations suggests an attempt to enable unelected individuals to assume state responsibilities in the future, which is unacceptable.  

Dear Journalist Brothers and Sisters,  

The recommendations propose establishing new commissions, including a Constitutional Commission (NCC). The descriptions of their jurisdiction and activities strongly suggest an attempt to bureaucratize and weaken both the legislative and executive branches, ultimately leading to a fragile and ineffective government.  

The democratic nature of the state and the people's ownership of governance are reflected through an elected parliament and their representatives. However, the recommendations of the Constitution and Election System Reform Commissions seem to sideline politicians and create opportunities for unelected individuals to govern the country.  

Reforms and constitutional amendments should be formulated with due consideration for the democratic heritage, traditions, culture, and religious values of the people.  

Upholding the anti-fascist national unity, honoring the sacrifices of the martyrs of the 16-year-long democratic movement and the July uprising, and establishing a society free from discrimination remain our highest priorities. All reform initiatives must be directed towards forming a strong, democratic political government based on broad national consensus—this is the national expectation.  

Thank you all.

Allah Hafez. Bangladesh Zindabad.