Nat’l charter must be finalised by Jul 30 through consensus: Ali Riaz

Professor Ali Riaz, Vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission, said a national charter must be finalised by reaching consensus on some fundamental issues. The target is to complete the process by July 30 through any possible means, or by July 31 at the latest.

“We are trying to reach a reasonable position by July through any means,” he said. “What is decided will be a step toward fulfilling our responsibility to the martyrs of the July-August movement.”

Ali Riaz made these remarks in his opening speech on Sunday (July 13) at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, marking the 12th day of the second phase of talks with political parties. The dialogue agenda includes the declaration of a state of emergency, the appointment of the Chief Justice, and the issue of a caretaker government.

The Vice-Chairman expressed optimism that the discussions would progress rapidly this week. “The public is watching the dialogue,” he said. “If we can move quickly and reach a national charter—from our side, your side, and most importantly, the citizens—everyone is hopeful and expecting swift progress.”

He thanked the political parties for their continued engagement, saying, “You are participating regularly in the discussions. It has been repeatedly proven that you are sincerely committed to the reform process, setting the agenda, and shaping the future roadmap of Bangladesh.”

“Our goal is to complete the process by July 30 at any cost,” Riaz added. “A delay would affect other organizational activities and hinder your participation in the election process, which we want to avoid. If we can promptly reach consensus on the fundamental issues under discussion, we will be able to conclude this phase and draft the national charter in a reasonable manner.”

He also noted that consensus has already been reached on several fundamental issues, and that parties are close to agreement on others. “Regarding today’s two agenda items, recent discussions have brought us very close. We are considering concluding talks on the appointment of the Chief Justice and the declaration of a state of emergency,” he said.