Justice, reform and elections Govt's three main priorities - Environment Adviser

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser for Environment addressing the Nordic Day programme at a local hotel on Thursday as the chief guest. Photo PID

Dhaka, February 6: Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change and Water Resources, said that the interim government is giving importance to three main priorities - justice, reform and elections. The advisor said this while speaking as the chief guest at the Nordic Day celebration at Radisson Blu Dhaka in the capital on the evening of February 6.

Rizwana Hasan said that establishing justice is the government's top priority so that accountability for past injustices can be ensured. The government is committed to ensuring justice to those who were killed, injured or blinded during the previous repressive regime. Regarding reforms, she said that despite the haste among the people, a well-organized process is needed to bring about the desired changes. She warned that if the process is not right, the desired results will not be fair.

Regarding elections, the adviser said that the government is committed to re-establishing democracy and ensuring the people's right to vote. However, she said that elections are not the solution to all problems, structural reforms are also necessary. This reform will not be effective without the participation of political parties. He said that sector-based experts have been involved in the government's reform plan, dialogue is underway with political parties and a new phase of discussions has begun based on their recommendations.

Referring to the democratic movement in Bangladesh, Rizwana Hasan said, in the last 53 years, our people have repeatedly fought for democracy. However, this time the change was an exception - this change came about through the initiative of the youth without political influence or external pressure. She said, keeping the economy stable, ensuring energy supply and managing the financial sector crisis are challenging. The government inherited a weak banking system, but ensuring the welfare of the people is their main goal.

Regarding the handling of protests and demonstrations, the adviser said, we have peacefully dealt with 180 movements in the last six months. We have shown patience without using conventional police tactics, which may one day be recognized. She said, we do not have another chance. Bangladesh cannot fight for democracy again and again - this time we have to walk the right path. She acknowledged that while there is pressure for reform, the responsibility to hold free and credible elections as soon as possible is also on our shoulders.

Regarding human rights, she expressed deep regret and said that many people have lost their sight, some have become permanently blind. These losses make people frustrated and angry, which can complicate the situation. She called on everyone to remain calm and emphasized national unity.

Adviser Rizwana Hasan expressed gratitude to the Nordic countries. She said that your support is very valuable not only for the interim government but also for civil society. I received your support even when I was running a non-governmental organization before joining the government.

Finnish Ambassador to Bangladesh Kimo Lahdevirta, Danish Ambassador Christian Briks Møller, Norwegian Ambassador Håkan Arold Gulbrandsen and Swedish Ambassador Nikolas Weeks spoke at the event. – PID Handout