Ali Riaz for reaching consensus on basic reform issues by July 31

Professor Ali Riaz, Vice Chair of the National Consensus Commission, on Sunday emphasized the urgent need for political consensus on fundamental reform issues by the end of July, aiming to finalize a National Charter that would reflect a unified vision for the country's future.

“We are trying to reach a logical point by the end of July—by any means,” Prof Riaz said, speaking on the twelfth day of the Commission’s ongoing second-round reform dialogue at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka. “Our target is to finalise this by July 30. At most, we may extend to July 31.”

He stressed that the National Charter must be developed through broad political agreement on several critical national matters. “This is a step toward fulfilling our responsibility to the martyrs of the July-August movement,” he said, referencing the historic democratic protests that continue to shape reform narratives in Bangladesh.

Sunday’s session focused on pressing topics, including the declaration of a state of emergency and the appointment process for the Chief Justice. These are among several issues under discussion as the Commission works to outline a comprehensive roadmap for reform.

About 30 political parties are currently participating in the second round of dialogues, presenting their views and recommendations on key state reforms.

The National Consensus Commission was formed on February 15, 2025, under the leadership of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, with the mandate to forge a national agreement on institutional and constitutional reforms.

The Commission began its second round of talks on June 2, following the conclusion of its first round on May 19, which involved discussions with 33 political parties and alliances.

The dialogue is set to resume on Wednesday, and the Commission is expected to finalize and announce the National Charter shortly thereafter.