Democracy key to effectiveness of upper and lower houses: Badiul Alam Majumdar

Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar, Election Commission member, has warned that establishing an upper and lower house system will yield little benefit if political parties do not practice democracy.

Speaking at a national dialogue organized by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) at Hotel Intercontinental on Thursday, Dr. Majumdar said, “Consensus does not mean everyone agreeing. Differences of opinion will always exist, and unity must be sought within those differences.”

The dialogue, titled “Can the Proposed Upper House Ensure the Accountability of the Majority Party in Parliament?”, discussed mechanisms to strengthen parliamentary accountability and governance.

Dr. Majumdar also noted that Sheikh Hasina came to power through elections, but autocratic tendencies have consolidated authority. “If we can establish checks and balances to maintain a balance of power and prevent autocratic systems, no one will need to become a fascist in the future,” he added.

The event was hosted by Rownak Jahan and featured speakers including Ruhin Hossain Prince, leader of the Communist Party of Bangladesh; EU Ambassador Michael Miller; Election Commission member Dr. Alim; Professor Asif M. Shahan; and CPD Director Professor Mohammad Nazim. The main paper was presented by CPD Director Khondkar Golam Moazzem.