Dhaka, June 29 (V7N) — The much-anticipated July Charter, initially hoped to be signed on the anniversary of Shaheed Abu Saeed’s death, now hinges on the political parties’ willingness to come to a consensus. However, the charter is expected to be finalized within the next month, said Ali Riaz, Vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the seventh day of the second phase of dialogue on Sunday, Ali Riaz remarked, “In response to the desire for change, the Consensus Commission has already shifted from its earlier positions. We have accommodated many proposals from political parties. Now, the parties themselves must show flexibility and move forward.”

He emphasized that the commission is working not as an adversary but as a facilitator. “We are here to fulfill a duty. Political parties will be the ones to reform the governance system. It must be constitutionally ensured that no one can amend the constitution beyond the will of the people. The independence of constitutional institutions and the judiciary is essential.”

Reflecting on the spirit of the July Uprising, Ali Riaz noted: “Each of us may have a party affiliation, but during the coup, no party flag was hoisted—only the national flag of Bangladesh. We were united for the nation’s sake, beyond considerations of leadership or alignment. Our objective was to end fascist rule and reform the system that created it.”

While acknowledging that discussions with political parties over the past week have yielded progress on several issues, Ali Riaz admitted that more decisive breakthroughs are needed. “We must reflect on whether individual or party interests will dominate, or whether we will prioritize the greater interest of the state and nation,” he said.

The July Charter, intended to institutionalize political reforms and safeguard democratic governance, remains a focal point of ongoing national dialogue.

END/RH/AJ