Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman has called on the interim government to announce a clear roadmap for state reforms and a new political settlement.
Speaking at a press conference Monday, Dr Iftekharuzzaman criticized the government’s temporary and ad-hoc approach to decision-making, stressing that urgent steps must be taken to address key political and institutional issues.
The press conference, held at the TIB office in Dhaka, was part of the organization’s review of the interim government’s first 100 days.
TIB presented its report, titled "New Bangladesh: Observations on the First 100 Days Post-Authoritarian Government Fall," highlighting both achievements and challenges faced by the interim administration.
Dr Iftekharuzzaman noted that while the interim government had made some positive strides in reform areas, such as rule of law, anti-corruption measures and media freedom, the lack of a clear strategic direction remained a critical concern.
He emphasized that without a detailed roadmap for reform, the momentum generated by the public and student movements for change could be undermined.
The TIB executive director pointed out that the student movement had always been about more than just changing the government—it was about creating a new political system in Bangladesh.
He argued that the establishment of reform commissions had created an opportunity to address long-standing issues, but warned that failing to act on the findings of these commissions would be a major setback.
Dr Iftekharuzzaman further stressed that rushing into elections without addressing the core reforms and building the necessary legal and institutional framework would be counterproductive.
He also suggested that the interim government should provide clarity on the timeline for implementing these reforms, which would help address public concerns about the timing of elections and other unresolved issues.
TIB’s observations also extended to the role of political parties and the international community. Dr Iftekharuzzaman criticized India’s position on the political situation in Bangladesh, accusing the country of supporting authoritarianism instead of promoting a democratic transition.
He also called for political parties in Bangladesh to undertake meaningful reforms, emphasizing that without changes within the parties themselves, state reforms would be meaningless.
Challenges in governance, law and order
Shahzada M Akram, principal researcher of the study, presented the report, which raised significant concerns about the ongoing political and administrative issues in the country.
The report criticized the controversial decision-making process surrounding the banning or lifting of bans on political parties, as well as the controversial decision to disregard eight national days, which has faced widespread criticism.
The report also highlighted several problems within the administration and institutions, noting that resignations had been forced in some areas. It raised questions about the criteria for contract-based appointments, pointing out the absence of sector-specific guidelines and transparency in the recruitment process.
Additionally, it criticized the continued practice of hiring or denying employment based on political affiliation.
Regarding the law-and-order situation, the report stated that over six hundred people have been killed and more than 10,000 injured across the country since the fall of the authoritarian government.
It noted a rise in thefts, robberies and violent crimes, while accusing authorities of failing to effectively investigate incidents or take action against those responsible for attacks on religious minorities, tribal groups, marginalized communities and dissidents.
On the state of political parties, the report pointed to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), noting a lack of democratic practices and necessary reforms within the party. It criticized the party over the practice of a culture of usurpation, extortion and dominance.
In its analysis of the ruling Awami League, the report stated that the party, while in power, failed to take responsibility for issues such as corruption, irregularities, money laundering, crimes against humanity and suppression of freedom of speech, particularly during the anti-discrimination movement.
The report also raised concerns about the growing influence of religion-based politics, noting that it has become more prominent in recent years.
It argued that the anti-discrimination student movement, which has been a supporting force for the government, has sometimes abused its power and played a controversial role.
Finally, the report criticised the reform commissions, alleging that they were unrepresentative and ineffective. It pointed out the failure to establish a commission for the critical reform of the education sector, despite its public importance.