Dr Kamal Hossain, founder and emeritus president of Gono Forum, yesterday said that it is wrong to blame the constitution alone for the government’s authoritarian attitude and lack of democracy.
“Rather, the practice of democracy within the government and political parties must be given the highest priority.”
The eminent jurist made the remarks in a written statement read out on his behalf at a discussion titled “Bangladesh’s Constitution and Reform Proposals” at the Jatiya Press Club.
Dr Kamal said reviewing the constitution in the present context is very important. “But during any reform, we must keep in mind that the constitution is the foundation of independent Bangladesh and the result of the sacrifices and united aspirations of its entire people.
“The constitution is the guiding document for running the state. Over the past 53 years, it has undergone various changes. Constitutional reform is a sensitive matter, and this process must be carried out based on the opinion of the people.”
Dr Kamal, one of the architects of the 1972 constitution, said no individual has the right to change the constitution alone, and any reform proposal must reflect the will of the people while being consistent with the nation’s basic values and the needs of the present time.
The veteran politician went on to say that constitutional institutions that have failed to meet public expectations due to politicisation in the past urgently need reform. “If political parties cannot build a national consensus on this matter, democracy will never get institutionalised.”
Ending with a note of optimism, he said, “I believe the next national parliament, to be formed through a free, fair and acceptable election, will be able to fulfil the people’s expectations and play its role in building a democratic, just, progressive and humane state through systematic reforms.”
