July charter draft ready, to be shared with political parties tomorrow: Ali Riaz

National Consensus Commission Vice Chairman Professor Ali Riaz said that a draft of the July Charter has been prepared, which will be shared with political parties tomorrow (28 July).

He made the announcement today (27 July) at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, during the 19th day of the second phase of the commission’s ongoing dialogue with political parties.

“We will not discuss the draft here, because these are matters of words. If any major fundamental objection arises, those will be discussed,” said Professor Riaz, adding that the final version of the charter will be prepared based on feedback from the parties.

He said the draft includes not only areas of reform where consensus has been reached, but also background information, the process of formulation, and the commitments involved.

Prof Ali Riaz also said the ongoing dialogue on state reforms must conclude by 31 July under any circumstances.

“We must finish this process [of reform discussion] by 31 July by any means. There is no alternative,” he said while presiding over the 19th-day session of the second-round dialogue between the NCC and political parties at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital.

So far, agreement has been reached on 10 issues, including the inclusion of notes of dissent.

Discussions are still ongoing on seven more issues, while three issues are yet to be addressed.

Two of the remaining issues are on the agenda for discussion today, he said.

“These include the formation of a Police Reform Commission, the fundamental principles of state governance, and the expansion of citizens’ fundamental rights,” Professor Riaz said.

“In light of all these considerations, we request that this process be completed through very clear discussions,” he added.