The Dhaka Forum Initiative (DFI) hosted a roundtable discussion titled “Re-imagining Bangladesh’s Political Future”, based on the book Tarique Rahman – Politics and Policies, bringing together nearly 100 policymakers, academics and thought leaders to discuss governance, leadership and institutional reform in Bangladesh’s evolving political context.
The discussion, held in Dhaka, explored governance models and democratic aspirations following the country’s recent political transition. Participants exchanged views on how inclusive leadership, evidence-based policymaking and institutional accountability could shape Bangladesh’s future trajectory.
The event featured Dr Khondokar Mosharraf Hossain, Member of the BNP Standing Committee, as Chief Guest, and Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, former Minister of Commerce, as Guest of Honour.
In his remarks, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said that Tarique Rahman’s leadership vision focused on decentralised governance and people-centric development, adding that Bangladesh’s economic future required policy reforms that encourage innovation and inclusive growth.
Dr Khondokar Mosharraf Hossain spoke about Tarique Rahman’s political journey and contribution to the party’s organisational reform, noting his connection with grassroots activists and emphasis on welfare-oriented policies.
Boby Hajjaj discussed Rahman’s 31-point reform agenda, calling it a roadmap for strengthening democracy and improving governance. He also urged political stakeholders to move beyond divisive narratives and focus on constructive national dialogue.
A special address was delivered by Ndileka Mandela, social activist and granddaughter of Nelson Mandela, who highlighted the global importance of ethical leadership and inclusive governance in sustaining democracy.
The session was chaired by Professor Dr M Anwarullah Chowdhury, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dhaka, and moderated by Professor Dr M Kamrul Ahsan, Vice-Chancellor of Jahangirnagar University.
Prominent discussants included Professor Dr Dil Rhowshon Zannat, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Bangladesh Open University; Professor Aliar Hossain, Head of the Department of Leadership and Diplomacy at Northumbria University, London; and Dr Mahdi Amin, Advisor to the BNP’s Acting Vice-Chairman.
Concluding the event, DFI reaffirmed its commitment to promoting intellectual dialogue and evidence-based policymaking as Bangladesh enters a new phase in its democratic journey.