Hoped to sign July charter on Abu Sayed’s martyrdom anniv: Ali Riaz

Professor Ali Riaz, vice-chairman of the National Consensus Commission, said, “We had hoped to sign the July charter collectively on the martyrdom anniversary of Abu Sayeed. How feasible that will be depends on all of you. But I can say this — the process must reach a conclusion within July.”

He made the remarks on Sunday (June 29) during the seventh day of the second phase of dialogues between political parties and the National Consensus Commission, held at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka.

Professor Riaz added, “Only one day remains before July begins. The commission remains committed. We made a promise, and we want to stay sincere to it. Our goal is to finalize the national charter within the month of July.”

“We’ve been holding discussions for the past seven days. While there has been some progress on various issues, the truth is that we are still somewhat behind in achieving meaningful progress,” he noted.

Riaz emphasized, “Achieving this progress is essential — none of us wants to return to the past. This is not just about tomorrow or the near future; it is a long-term matter.”

“Our aim was to free ourselves from fascist rule. Structural reforms are needed in the system that enabled such governance. With that determination, we came together, setting everything else aside. Your activists have sacrificed their lives and endured oppression. We stand here with our feet on that blood,” he said.

He further stressed, “The commission is not your opponent. It is a part of you — we are simply fulfilling a responsibility. The commission’s flexibility has been evident due to your position, and that is largely because you represent the people. One day, the country will be governed through you.”