Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal on Sunday sought technical and financial support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for implementing an e-Parliament initiative and strengthening parliamentary institutions.
He made the request when a UNDP delegation, led by UNDP Bangladesh Deputy Resident Representative Sonali Dayaratne, paid a courtesy call on him at his office in the National Parliament Building, according to a press release.
During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on Bangladesh’s parliamentary democracy and discussed possible initiatives to further strengthen parliamentary practices and legislative functions.
Kayser Kamal said the present government is giving the highest priority to the education and health sectors.
He noted that as society evolves and people’s needs change, laws also require timely amendments to remain relevant and effective.
The deputy speaker welcomed UNDP’s proposal to introduce a parliamentary fellowship or internship programme that will enable recent graduates to work at the Parliament Library and enhance their knowledge of parliamentary affairs.
He also stressed the importance of ensuring that any future parliamentary projects do not duplicate initiatives already being implemented by the European Union or other development partners.
Seeking UNDP’s support for the proposed e-Parliament initiative, Kayser Kamal expressed hope that the organisation will provide both technical expertise and financial assistance to modernise parliamentary operations.
The meeting also discussed opportunities for sharing experience between the members of parliaments of Bangladesh and Nepal.
The deputy speaker endorsed the proposal, saying such exchanges could contribute to strengthening parliamentary practices.
He further underscored the need for enacting necessary legislation to make parliamentary standing committees more effective.
Kayser Kamal also expressed a positive view of UNDP’s initiative to organize orientation programmes for MPs aimed at advancing the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
