Ali Riaz urges political parties to reach consensus on reforms within 10 days

“A few issues are still under discussion, and we can allow a day or two for that," says the vice-chairman of the National Consensus Commission

Ali Riaz, vice-chairman of the National Consensus Commission, has emphasised the need for political parties to make decisions on key reform issues without further delay, reminding them that there are only 10 days left in July to reach a consensus.

“If we want to fulfil what we see as our responsibility, decisions must be made quickly -- within the next 10 days, including today,” he said on Monday

“A few issues are still under discussion, and we can allow a day or two for that. But on certain matters, we simply cannot move forward without decisions.”

Riaz made the call during his opening statement on day 16 of the second phase of dialogues with political parties at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka.

The issues on the agenda included the possibility of a prime minister holding multiple positions and the foundational principles of state governance.

“You must indicate clearly whether you agree or disagree on each point. From the beginning, we’ve had a system for recording dissenting notes. If any party disagrees, that’s fine. It will be mentioned in the national charter with reasons already provided. If needed, you may summarise your stance briefly, but extended debates won’t be possible,” said Riaz.

Referring to several issues already discussed across multiple days, he added: “We have reached the stage of decision-making on those matters. We must move forward with some form of decision-making through this process.”

On the question of a bicameral parliament, he said: “Whether or not a bicameral system should be introduced is being considered based on your opinions. We hope to reach a consensus within the next one or two days.”

On the caretaker government system, Riaz noted that most parties have agreed on its inclusion in the revised consolidated proposal.

“There may still be some suggestions on minor details. That’s why we’ve requested that you submit any further recommendations today, so we can present them tomorrow and work toward a final decision.”

He stressed that any remaining topics must be addressed within the next 10 days, saying: “In the early stages, there was both agreement and disagreement on many points. On issues related to the state structure, system of governance, and overall democratic governance, which we’ve deemed significant, further discussion has been reopened. We’ve already agreed on eight issues, although there are dissenting notes on some of them.”