DHAKA, April 8, (V7N) - Vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission, Professor Dr Ali Riaz, has stated that one of the commission’s key objectives is to draft a roadmap for the future of Bangladesh. He said this is the first time since independence that the country has an opportunity to design a concrete methodology for state reform.

Dr Riaz made the remarks during a meeting with a Nagorik Oikya delegation at the LD Hall of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Tuesday. The session was part of the ongoing dialogue series initiated by the commission to engage with political and civil society stakeholders. A press release issued after the meeting confirmed the development.

The meeting was attended by other commission members including Safar Raj Hossain, Justice Emdadul Hoque, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, and Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser Monir Haider. Nagorik Oikya was represented by its presidium member Zillur Chowdhury Dipu, who led the party’s delegation in the talks.

Professor Riaz noted that with the commission’s tenure ending on July 15 this year, all efforts are being made to complete the reform framework within that deadline. He stressed the importance of timely dialogue and inclusive participation to ensure the commission’s objectives are fulfilled.

He also expressed optimism that a national charter could be developed through comprehensive consultations. This charter, he said, would form the foundation for the next general election and contribute to a peaceful political transition.

Professor Riaz reiterated that the National Consensus Commission is committed to ensuring a free and fair election. He said the commission’s activities aim to establish a system that strengthens democracy and guarantees equal participation from all political forces in the country.

END/MSS/RH/