Seminar Title: Designing a New Constitution for the Second Republic: The Role of the Constituent Assembly
Event Report
Date: 19 December 2024
Place: Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS)
Host: Dacca Institute of Research & Analytics (daira)
Moderator: Dr. Asif Shahan, Professor of Development Studies, University of Dhaka
A seminar titled “Designing a New Constitution for the Second Republic: The Role of the Constituent Assembly” was held on 19 December 2024, at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS). The event brought together an esteemed panel of experts, including academics, legal professionals, and civil society leaders.
Proposition Paper Highlights
A proposition paper presented by Saleh Khan and Hasibul Hasan advocated for the establishment of a Second Republic anchored by a new constitutional framework. Key elements included:
- Four Foundational Principles: Human Dignity, Democracy, Social Justice, and Diversity.
- Structural Reforms: Introduction of a Bill of Dignity, reconfiguration of the power structure, and establishment of a bicameral Constituent Assembly aimed at enhancing representation and inclusivity.
Panel Discussion
The panel featured insights from:
- Barrister Sara Hossain, Senior Advocate of the Supreme Court
- Dr. Mirza M. Hassan, Head of Governance and Politics Cluster of BIGD
- Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuaad, Joint Secretary of AB Party
- Samantha Sharmin, Spokesperson of Jatiya Nagorik Committee
- Johir Uddin, Lawyer and researcher
- Rashed Rahom, Constitutional history researcher
- Psymhe Wadud, Lecturer of Law, University of Dhaka
- Sadman Rizwan Apurbo, Lecturer of Law, BRAC University
- Alik Mree, Member of Jatiya Nagorik Committee
Key Insights and Deliberations:
- Psymhe Wadud stressed the importance of protecting marginalized communities through affirmative action measures.
- Rashed Rahom highlighted the need for inclusivity in the constitution-making process.
- Samantha Sharmin advocated for a constitution that is accessible and understandable to the public.
- Barrister Sara Hossain emphasized refugee rights, fair trials, and checks on executive power.
- Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuaad questioned the feasibility of a bicameral legislature, citing the need for political maturity.
- Dr. Mirza M. Hassan urged careful deliberation on the proposed framework’s challenges.
Conclusion
The seminar provided a platform for dialogue on reimagining constitutional governance in Bangladesh. It emphasized the complexities of constitution-making and the importance of collaborative efforts in crafting a framework that reflects the aspirations of all citizens.