DHAKA, May 17, (V7N) — Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal said members of parliament have a key role to play in helping Bangladesh achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He made the comments when a delegation from the Citizens’ Platform for SDGs, Bangladesh, led by convener Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, paid a courtesy call on him at his office in the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban today, according to a press release.
Kamal said he has long worked for minority communities, human rights, and marginalized groups, even before entering parliament. “As a result, the Garo and Hajong communities unequivocally voted for me in the 13th parliamentary election,” he said. He added that he remains dedicated to reducing the hardships faced by these communities by bringing them into the mainstream.
The Deputy Speaker noted that parliamentary caucuses hold great importance in the Westminster system of governance. He suggested that creating a caucus of lawmakers focused on SDG achievement could help build a more humane and inclusive Bangladesh.
He also pointed out that young MPs in the current parliament are actively working toward a developed Bangladesh.
The delegation told the Deputy Speaker that the Citizens’ Platform works with relevant stakeholders to support the welfare of poor and marginalized groups, including ethnic minorities and persons with disabilities. They emphasized the need to form an independent parliamentary caucus.
Both sides agreed to work together on quality education, public services, good governance, and the welfare of minority communities.
Among those present from the Citizens’ Platform were core group members Professor Mustafizur Rahman; Dr. Iftekharuzzaman; Bangladesh Adivasi Forum General Secretary Sanjeeb Drong; Hasin Jahan; Zakir Hossain; Ashrafun Nahar Mishti, executive director of Women with Disabilities Development Foundation; and Tarannum Zinan.
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