The fall of the previous dictatorship is only the first step toward building a new Bangladesh, according to Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman.
He emphasized the need to develop new political forces to carry forward the spirit of the anti-discrimination student movement, stating that traditional political parties are unlikely to achieve this. However, he clarified that this opinion is his personal view, not the official stance of TIB.
Iftekharuzzaman made these remarks during a discussion, titled "Democracy and Good Governance in New Bangladesh: Expectations of Youth," held at the TIB office in Dhanmondi on Sunday, in observance of International Democracy Day 2024.
He noted that questions about when, how, and by whom a new political party will be formed are now critical. Nevertheless, he stressed the importance of everyone’s involvement.
"We must all participate from our respective positions and take responsibility. It is not enough to question why things are happening; we must act," he said.
He highlighted the importance of a new political party in realizing the spirit and expectations of a new Bangladesh, suggesting that without it, such aspirations cannot be fulfilled. He will also serve as the head of the anti-corruption reform commission formed by the interim government, which is expected to start its work by October.
Iftekharuzzaman warned that if those elected to power in the upcoming elections engage in factionalism, exploitation, or extortion—activities that are already surfacing—there are many reasons for concern. He stated that if leaders fall into fascist tendencies, they will inevitably face downfall.
He also called on civil and military bureaucracy, as well as law enforcement, to take lessons from this situation.
"Our younger generation is advocating for state reform," he added. "The current movement’s consciousness is centered on ending feudalism, promoting tolerance, establishing a non-communal Bangladesh, and ensuring justice for all."
The TIB executive director further emphasized that equal rights in the socio-economic sector must be ensured.
He said: "The fall of the dictatorship represents the beginning of a new journey, and that new journey is where we must build a new Bangladesh. State reform and political reconciliation are essential."
During the event, Hasnat Abdullah, coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, called on everyone to cooperate with the movement’s coordinators.
"The anti-discrimination movement was a collective effort," he said. "We will continue reaching out to everyone, even if we face criticism. We can criticize, but we can also offer unconditional support."
Abdullah also noted that criticizing the fact that someone brought large sums of money using his name in Panchagarh district diminishes the scope of their work. "This demoralizes us," he said.
He pointed out that issues arise when they collect relief or even hold ceremonies to honor the martyrs.
He clarified that the movement operates on a voluntary basis, saying: "We are not an authority nor a legal entity. We seek everyone's cooperation. If mistakes are made, we need proper mechanisms to address and correct them. This makes our work easier."
He further added: "A realistic attitude has emerged. Civil society cannot evade its responsibility. Intellectuals failed in 1971 and again in 2024. If 2024 repeats the mistakes of 1990, 1971, or 1952, we will never be able to regain the strength or capability we’ve built."
Samantha Sharman, spokesperson for the National Citizen Committee, said: "We want to discuss the goals of the mass uprising and then outline the future of Bangladesh."
Arif Sohel, a key coordinator of the Jahangirnagar University branch of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, remarked, "We have yet to see the language of the people, created through struggle and resistance, come to power. We must dismantle patriarchy within our political parties."
He added: "The people's desire has been ignited. Political parties must transform in response to this desire. We seek to engage in dialogue and foster understanding with everyone."
Author, poet, screenwriter, filmmaker, and novelist Sadat Hossain said: "We must reach the common people through art and culture. We need to nurture people with a sense of justice and wisdom."
National Citizens Committee member Ariful Islam Adeeb, presenter and media worker Farabi Hafiz, and others also attended the discussion.