Will focus on resolving disagreements in 2nd phase

Prof Ali Riaz, vice-president of the National Consensus Commission, yesterday said the second phase of discussions will begin soon, focusing on resolving disagreements and advancing with the process of drafting a National Charter.

He made the remarks during a meeting with the Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) at the National Parliament building.

With this meeting, the commission has completed its initial round of talks with political parties to build consensus on reforms.

Riaz said, "The first phase, which began two months ago, concluded yesterday. Through these continued dialogues, we have reached consensus on many issues, though some differences remain. In the second phase, we will address the points of disagreement one by one to move quickly in drafting the National Charter," he said.

The CPB delegation was led by General Secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince.

The party has expressed disagreement with several proposals put forward by the consensus commission. These include changing the constitutional name of the country, altering the four fundamental principles of the Constitution, introducing a bicameral parliament, forming a National Constitutional Council, and lowering the age limits for voters and parliamentary candidates.

The party also opposed proposals to hold referendums on reforms and to shorten the term of the President.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Prince said the electoral system needs fundamental reform.

"The people don't just want an election. They want to know whether manipulation will once again take place, whether the old reign of fear will return," Prince said.

Public opinion is essential for a free and credible election, he stressed.

The consensus commission began work on February 15 and launched formal talks on March 20. Since then, it has held meetings with 33 political parties.