Bangladesh’s interim gov’t unveils plan to reform key sectors

by Naim-Ul-Karim
DHAKA, Sept. 12 (Xinhua) — Bangladeshi interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has taken action to protect the rule of law and bolster the crisis-ridden economy since he took office.
As part of his bids to reform Bangladesh, Yunus Wednesday announced that the government has decided to form six commissions to reform the judiciary, election system, administration, police, anti-corruption commission, and the constitution.
He made the announcement in a television speech to the nation on Wednesday night, marking the first month of the interim government’s formation since Aug. 8 after then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India on Aug. 5.
According to Yunus, these commissions are expected to start their work on Oct. 1 and finish within the next three months.
Yunus said reforming the police administration, public administration, judiciary, and anti-corruption commission, along with the election commission, is essential for holding the next election in a free and fair manner.
“I believe these reforms will also contribute to establishing a people-owned, accountable, and welfare-oriented state system,” said Yunus.
He called upon people from all walks of life to bring about reforms in their respective spheres.
“This is a responsibility for all of us. Bring reform in your own world. A nation’s reform cannot only be the government’s reform,” the chief adviser added.
Yunus said that based on the commissions’ reports, the interim government will organize discussions with major political parties in the next phase.
At the final stage, a comprehensive consultation will be held for three to seven days with representatives from student bodies, civil society, political parties, and the government.
Yunus said the government is determined to create a democratic framework for the country.
Yunus reiterated that his government wants good relations with neighboring countries, and relations should be based on fairness and equality.
Earlier on Wednesday, the central bank of Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Bank, issued a notification regarding the formation of a six-member task force for ensuring financial stability of the banking sector. ■