On November 23, 2024 (Saturday), at 10:00 AM, the second session of the discussion on constitutional reform in Bangladesh was held in the Hemanta Hall of Six Seasons Hotel, Gulshan-2, Dhaka. The event was jointly organized by the Center for Governance and Development and Dhaka International University.
The discussion featured speeches from notable personalities, including Professor Dr. Lt. Col. Nazmul Ahsan Kalimullah (BNCC, O), Chairman of JANIPOP; Iktedar Ahmed, former judge and columnist; Professor Dr. Nurul Amin Bepari, former Professor of Political Science, University of Dhaka; Barrister Shamim Haider Patwary, Chairman, Board of Trustees, Dhaka International University; Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad, Joint Member Secretary, AB Party; Barrister Rumin Farhana, politician; Kamal Uddin Siddique, former Principal Secretary; and senior journalist Masud Kamal, among others. The discussion was moderated by Professor Dr. Md. Shariful Alam, Director of the Bangladesh Center for Governance and Development and Research and Publication Cell, Dhaka International University.
During his speech, Barrister Shamim Haider Patwary emphasized the need to amend the constitution in a way that prevents gridlock in the state mechanism, stressing the importance of balancing the powers of the President and the Prime Minister. Barrister Rumin Farhana highlighted that understanding constitutional rights requires people to read and comprehend the constitution. Senior journalist Masud Kamal warned that abolishing the 1972 constitution would strip Bangladesh of its uniqueness.
Professor Dr. Lt. Col. Nazmul Ahsan Kalimullah remarked that the constitution was hastily imposed after independence. Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad argued that the 1972 constitution needs to be revised to rectify foundational mistakes. Iktedar Ahmed stated that, apart from three amendments, the rest were made to serve political interests. Professor Dr. Nurul Amin Bepari opined that the current government has revolutionary legitimacy.
The discussion was attended by teachers and students from various departments of Dhaka International University.
