While proposing the reforms, the officials noted that despite significant progress and recognition on the global stage, Bangladesh has not fully reaped the benefit of the ‘hard-earned’ freedom
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A group of retired military officials in Bangladesh has come up with a comprehensive set of guidelines that aims to overhaul the state system that was functioning in Dhaka. In the proposal, the ex-offical asked Bangladesh’s new Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, to stay in power for 2-3 years to facilitate the transition.
The Bangladeshi Nobel laureate came to power following the demise of ex-PM Sheikh Hasina’s reign in Bangladesh due to nationwide anti-government protests. According to Bangladeshi news outlet The Dhaka Tribune, the proposal pushed by retired officials aims to address longstanding issues of governance, administration, and societal inequality, that have grappled Bangladesh for decades.
While proposing the reforms, the officials noted that despite significant progress and recognition on the global stage, Bangladesh has not fully reaped the benefit of the “hard-earned” freedom. The officials accused public servants of “acting like oppressors” and slammed politicians for prioritising personal and party interests over citizens. Here’s a look at some of the reforms the ex-military officials are trying to push.
Political Reforms
According to The Dhaka Tribune, the group proposed a mixed electoral system combining the existing structure with proportional representation. The officials referred to it as the “Bangladesh version” of elections. One of the key reforms included abolishing the current “women’s quota” in elections which will allow parties to have their own discretion over the candidate list.
The officials asked the interim government to stay in power for 2 to 3 years to facilitate reforms and the elections should be conducted only after comprehensive reforms are completed, and corrupt individuals are removed from the political process. The body also called for the parliamentary term to be adjusted to 4 or 6 years with a scope of midterm polls. As per the proposal, the new parliament should consist of 500 seats – 300 based on constituencies and 200 allocated proportionally to political parties.
When it comes to international affairs, the guidelines propose a robust, dynamic foreign policy that is adaptable to global changes, abandoning the policy of “friendship with all, malice towards none” in favour of more strategic partnerships, The Dhaka Tribune reported.
Judicial reforms
In regards to the judicial reforms, the retired military officials called for a comprehensive overhaul of the judiciary to “enhance its independence and effectiveness.” This plan stated that the appointments of the Chief Justice and judges of the Appellate Division should be made by a selection panel formed by the Chief Adviser. The officials also noted that lower courts should operate under the directives of the Supreme Court and should be independent of the Ministry of Law.
Economic Reforms
Concerning the economic reforms, the ex-military officials highlighted the need for respect and support for remittance workers and the proper use of remittances for national development. The officials also called for the reduction of dependence on foreign loans, and government spending cuts along with stringent measures to recover laundered money and curb inflation.
Need for more accountability
One of the key highlights of the proposal was the need for accountability at all levels of governance. The group called for the public-oriented administrative machinery of Bangladesh.
The proposal also demanded the release of “white papers” to provide transparency on incidents under the previous government, including a re-investigation into the BDR mutiny of 2009. The proposal also emphasised the need to review all economic agreements made by the past government and stated that any agreements against national interests should be annulled.
Finally, the officials urged the current Bangladeshi policymakers to consider these recommendations seriously to ensure a prosperous and inclusive future.