He recollected those who gave their lives, fought and were injured and killed in the July uprising and those who had fought against all kinds of oppression for the past 16 years before the uprising.
“We owe a debt to all those who, over the past 53 years, have tried to establish a democratic, accountable and inclusive state in Bangladesh, and a state that ensures citizens’ rights,” he added.
Terming the ongoing dialogue on reforms a step forward, Prof Riaz said they have been able to make progress at least to some extent. “But if we fail to uphold and carry forward this (this progress), all opportunities may slip away. To do so, it needs a collective effort.”
He said they are making collective efforts to build Bangladesh as a democratic and accountable state for not only the present generation but also the future generations, and expressed the hope that a national charter can be prepared soon through the consensus of all political parties.