Professor Dr Ali Riaz, Vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission, has expressed optimism about holding national elections in December this year, given the commitment of political parties to the reform process.
“I am optimistic that significant reforms can be achieved. It is not impossible, and my confidence stems from the commitment shown by political parties,” Riaz stated in an exclusive interview with BSS in Dhaka.
Riaz, who also chaired the Constitution Reforms Commission under the interim government, acknowledged that some remained sceptical about the reform process but maintained that optimism was necessary.
An academic specialising in political science and international politics in the United States, Riaz emphasised that it was not only political parties but also the people of Bangladesh who were eager for elections, having been unable to cast their votes for the past 17 years.
“This is an ideal situation. I believe reforms are achievable, and elections can be held because, at this stage, it is not just the political parties but also the citizens who are eager to vote,” he said.
He also reassured that Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and his interim government “do not intend to remain in power for a day longer than necessary”.
The seven-member National Consensus Commission, led by Professor Yunus, was formed on 13th February to engage political parties in discussions regarding reform recommendations made by six commissions covering key sectors, including the constitution and the electoral system.
The commission held its first meeting with political parties on 15th February, aiming to establish a consensus on political, constitutional, and electoral reforms. Speaking at the inaugural session as vice-chair, Riaz expressed hope that it would not take long for parties to reach an agreement on key issues.
Action Plan of the National Consensus Commission
Riaz outlined the commission’s step-by-step approach to facilitating reforms. The first step involves providing political parties with the full reports of the six commissions, which have already been submitted to the Chief Adviser.
Political parties will then assess and identify key recommendations for potential implementation. While no strict deadline has been set for completing this process, both the commission and political parties recognise the urgency of reforms.
“We do not want to rush this process, as it is crucial to ensure meaningful discussions,” Riaz stated, adding that Professor Yunus has described this phase as the second stage of the interim government—where dialogue must be accompanied by action.
However, Riaz reminded that the commission has a six-month timeframe to build consensus on reform proposals. Political parties will need to provide their feedback within a stipulated period, and efforts are being made to expedite the process, given the public’s anticipation of elections.
“If major parties and a vast majority agree on a constitutional reform proposal, for example, we can set it aside as agreed upon and focus on discussions where differences remain,” he explained.
He noted that while the six commissions have made their recommendations, political parties may propose alternative solutions aligning with their governance plans, as the ultimate responsibility of governance rests with elected representatives.
Riaz stressed that political parties must balance their priorities with the broader national interest.
National Charter and Reform Implementation
Riaz explained that once key agreements are reached, the process will culminate in a National Charter—a guiding document for future governments.
“This charter will serve as a roadmap, ensuring that any government elected by the people adheres to the agreed-upon reforms,” he said.
The Consensus Commission will work with political parties to determine which reforms should be implemented before the next election, which should be addressed by the new parliament, and whether certain decisions should be put to a referendum.
Riaz highlighted that the commission’s role is to facilitate discussions and help political parties find a way forward, without dictating a singular approach.
Political parties will ultimately decide on the reforms they wish to pursue, and the final agreements will be made public through a dedicated website to ensure transparency.
“The publication of these agreements is intended to engage citizens, as they have the right to know what reforms political parties are committing to,” he added.
Public engagement remains a priority, although the mechanism for direct public input is yet to be determined.
Commitment of Political Parties to Reforms
Responding to speculation about political parties’ commitment to the reform process, Riaz urged a forward-looking approach.
“Let’s not be prisoners of the past,” he remarked.
He acknowledged that Bangladesh has historically struggled with political consensus but pointed to successful agreements in the past, such as the caretaker government system.
Bangladesh’s current political climate is unprecedented, he said, with all parties recognising the necessity of reform due to the challenges they have faced over the past 16 years. The recent mass uprising, which claimed over 1,400 lives, further underscores the urgency for change.
“No party claims that everything is fine. They all acknowledge the need for structural reforms, whether in governance, the judiciary, or constitutional bodies,” Riaz noted.
However, he admitted that while all parties support reform, their priorities may differ.
“Every party wants reform, but their focus areas vary. Our role is to facilitate discussions and find common ground,” he added.
Asked about the fate of reform proposals post-election, Riaz emphasised that political parties must ensure accountability. The Consensus Commission’s ultimate goal is to establish a binding National Charter that all parties adhere to, both before and after the elections.
“This is the ideal scenario, but it will ultimately be up to the political parties to implement the proposals,” he concluded.
Judicial Process Regarding the Awami League
Riaz stated that decisions regarding the Awami League’s political future will be determined by the interim government and relevant authorities. However, individuals accused of crimes against humanity must be brought to justice.
He clarified that the question of banning the Awami League is not part of the ongoing consensus negotiations, as it falls under a separate judicial and governmental process.
“The United Nations has documented crimes against humanity committed under the command of a political party. The responsibility lies with individuals, and this is a judicial matter that must be addressed by the interim government,” he said.
Riaz further pointed to historical concerns regarding the Awami League’s governance, citing periods of authoritarian rule from 1972-75 and again from 2009-2024 under Sheikh Hasina.
“This is a party that has twice fostered autocratic rule. That suggests a deeper ideological issue, rather than an isolated event,” he stated.
However, he cautioned that while these concerns must be addressed, they should not overshadow the broader need for structural reforms.
“These are separate issues. The need for structural reforms should not be derailed,” Riaz asserted.
Constitutional Reforms and the Path Forward
As the head of the Constitution Reforms Commission, Riaz explained that proposed reforms cannot simply be imposed through executive orders—they require national consensus and a structured process.
“There are multiple ways to approach constitutional reform, including a constituent assembly, a referendum, or a negotiated agreement. Bangladesh can either learn from global experiences or develop its own path,” he said.
The commission’s role, he emphasised, is to review the constitution, identify gaps, and make recommendations—not dictate the reform process.
“We have not used the term ‘amendment’ but have instead identified articles that require reform. It is up to political parties to decide what to adopt and how to implement it,” Riaz clarified.
He noted that certain proposals, such as the establishment of a bicameral parliament and a national constitutional council, would require broad political support.
However, he urged parties to first agree on what reforms are necessary before debating their implementation.
“Let’s take it step by step. First, we must identify what needs to change—then we can discuss how to implement it. The National Charter should be the starting point,” he concluded.
