Senior reporter
Even after 54 years of independence, Bangladesh is still waiting for the restoration of democracy. Having gone through numerous political ups and downs, elections, power transitions, and struggles for the establishment of citizens' rights, the nation remains hopeful for better governance and efficient public services.a
In an ongoing effort to shape Bangladesh’s political future, various parties have submitted their written opinions on proposed constitutional, public administration, judiciary, electoral, and Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) reforms. While some have voiced strong criticism against the interim government’s 'Consensus Commission', others remain committed to ensuring democratic elections.
The newly formed political party National Citizen Party (NCP), formed by a section of the Jatiya Nagarik Committee (JNC) and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, and student organisation Bangladesh Ganotantrik Chhatrasangsad are looking for new offices.
On February 25 and 26, 2009, shortly after the newly elected Awami League government took office, one of the most heinous massacres in the country's history took place at the headquarters of the Bangladesh Rifles (BDR), now known as the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), in Pilkhana, Dhaka. On that day, 74 people, including 57 army officers, were brutally killed.
A growing rift over the leadership structure in a new political party, formed by student and youth activists, has sparked controversy within the National Citizens Committee and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.
Amid ongoing debates on whether the national or local government elections should be held first, the Election System Reform Commission has proposed conducting all local government elections first under a caretaker government, followed by the national elections. The commission has recommended setting the tenure of the caretaker government at four months to complete all elections within this period.