Bangladesh has set up a new reform commission after the student-led protests that removed long-time leader Sheikh Hasina. The commission’s goal is to eliminate “fascism” and protect democracy. They need to present their suggestions to the temporary government by December 31, as part of major changes promised by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, who is now the country’s chief advisor.
Ali Riaz, the chair of the reform commission and a political science professor, said they want to create a constitution that reflects what the people of Bangladesh desire. He pointed out that the current constitution gives too much power to the prime minister, which can lead to fascism due to the lack of balanced power.
The commission consists of experienced lawyers, law professors, rights activists, and student leaders who played a key role in the protests. They will hold discussions with legal experts, civil society members, and political parties to gather input.
The interim government plans to review the proposed changes with all political groups before sending them to the commission. After several discussions, the final version of the recommendations will be established.
During Hasina’s 15 years in power, her government was known for human rights violations, including the detention and killing of political opponents. There were also concerns about unfair elections and the politicization of the judicial system. Yunus has stated that the public administration system is in disarray and needs a major overhaul to avoid a return to dictatorship.
