Ali Riaz calls for national unity on fundamental reforms

Professor Ali Riaz, vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission, has called on political parties to set aside partisan interests and unite on key national reforms to strengthen democracy in Bangladesh.

Speaking at a discussion titled "Anniversary of the Mass Uprising of Students-Workers-People: Bangladesh's Democratic Journey", organised by the Democratic State Council at Dhaka Reporters Unity, Riaz emphasized the urgency of collective action. "There is no need to agree on everything," he said, "but we must reach a consensus on fundamental issues—just as we stood united against fascism last July."

Highlighting the need for deep structural changes, Riaz stated, "To democratize the state, we must build strong institutional foundations. This requires the unity of all democratic forces to fulfill the constitutional promises of equality, human dignity, and social justice."

He also invoked the memory of the martyrs of the July Uprising, urging the nation to reflect on their sacrifices. "The blood of those who were martyred has placed a responsibility on our shoulders. The real question is—how far have we fulfilled that responsibility?"