Dhaka, Apr 17 (V7N) – The National Consensus Commission and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) commenced their first day of discussions today, April 17, 2025, at the LD Hall of the Parliament House in Dhaka. The dialogue is aimed at collaboratively working towards establishing a firm foundation for democracy in Bangladesh.  

"Vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission Professor Dr Ali Riaz said that they are working together to give the democracy a firm footing," reported the Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS).  

Professor Dr. Ali Riaz, speaking at the beginning of the meeting, emphasized the shared goal of both parties in strengthening democratic institutions in the country.

"Expressing hope to create a roadmap for the future of Bangladesh, he said, 'We want to create a situation institutionally and constitutionally through discussions that will create a future roadmap for Bangladesh,'" Dr. Riaz stated.  

Present at the discussion were prominent members of the National Consensus Commission, including Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, Emdadul Hoque, and Badiul Alam Majumder. Monir Haider, the special assistant for consensus building to the chief adviser of the interim government, also attended the meeting.  

"Commission members Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Emdadul Hoque and Badiul Alam Majumder and special assistant (consensus building) to the chief adviser of the interim government Monir Haider were present on the occasion," BSS reported.  

Dr. Riaz further articulated the spirit of cooperation underlying the discussions, stating that despite sitting on opposite sides of the negotiation table, both entities share a common objective. He underscored their joint commitment to fulfilling the nation's long-standing aspiration for a permanent and robust democratic framework.  

"He said, 'Although we sit on both sides on the table for negotiation but we do not belong to two sides. We are working together to give a permanent foundation to democracy which is a long-standing aspiration of the nation,'" Dr. Riaz affirmed.  

The initiation of these talks between a major political party like the BNP and the National Consensus Commission signifies a crucial step in the ongoing political landscape of Bangladesh. The discussions are expected to pave the way for potential institutional and constitutional reforms aimed at fortifying the democratic process in the nation. The presence of key figures from both sides underscores the significance of this dialogue.

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