Reforms and elections must complement each other: Saki

Dhaka, 4 Jan – Ganosamhati Andolan’s Chief Coordinator Junaid Saki has said that reforms and elections are intrinsically linked, stating that both are necessary for meaningful political change.

"Just as there will be no elections without reforms, many reforms without elections will not be possible," Saki said during a public dialogue titled "Establishing a New Political Settlement for the Democratic Transformation of the State" at the Jatiya Press Club on Saturday.

Saki stressed that the next election date should be determined through discussions involving all stakeholders and highlighted the need for a power structure rooted in accountability to the people. "The power of the future must be the power of accountability of the people," he said.

While Bangladesh has made significant progress over the last 53 years, justice for the country's people remains elusive, Saki bemoaned.

He pointed out that the prolonged authoritarian style of governance has hindered progress, calling for structural changes to the 1972 Constitution. "The power has been going on in a fascist manner for so long, it has to be changed."

Saki also underscored the importance of uniting people in the fight for democratic transformation and warned against divisive tactics. "Only if there is accountability of power, it is possible to establish the rule of law in society."

Urging vigilance, he called on citizens to remain united in ensuring a democratic and just society.

Political analysts and activists joined the event.