Staff Reporter :
The Bangladesh University Teachers’ Network has unveiled a proposal to establish an interim government composed of teachers, judges, lawyers, and civil society representatives.
This initiative, aimed at facilitating a democratic transition, is grounded in the collective opinions of civil and political forces within the country.
The proposal underscores the pivotal role of protesting students in the election of members for this interim government, necessitating the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration in favor of the new governance structure.
Prof. Anu Muhammad, a former faculty member of Jahangirnagar University (JU), presented the proposal during a press briefing at the Sagar-Runi Auditorium of the Dhaka Reporters Unity.
Speaking on behalf of the university teachers, Prof. Anu outlined a series of steps that he believes could lead to the resignation and subsequent democratic transition.
Central to this plan is the formation of a shadow government led by citizens, encompassing students and educators, with support from organizations representing the primary forces behind the student protests.
“This approach will ensure the accountability and transparency of the interim government, fostering an environment conducive to democratic elections,” Prof. Anu stated.
He also suggested that this shadow government could function even within an elected democratic system.
Key responsibilities of the interim government, once in office, would include the establishment of an inquiry committee and a special tribunal, with United Nations support, to prosecute those responsible for the July killings and the oppression of civilians.
Additionally, the government would aim to withdraw recent false cases and release individuals detained in these cases.
The proposal envisions that within six months of its formation, the interim government would conduct elections to form a Constituent Assembly.
This assembly would then draft a democratic constitution, free from autocratic, communal, and discriminatory clauses.
Following the adoption of this constitution, the interim government would immediately organize the next general election.
A declaration outlining these principles and actions should be finalized through dialogue between students and citizens, steering Bangladesh toward progress through a blend of diversity.
“The Bangladesh University Teachers’ Network is prepared to assume any necessary role in the formation of the proposed interim government and its shadow governance,” Prof. Anu added.
He emphasized that this outline is a preliminary proposal, open to future expansion and refinement as needed.
This proposal comes at a critical juncture for Bangladesh. At least 93 people, including 14 policemen, have died as violent protests erupted across the country today. The widespread unrest underscores the urgent need for a peaceful and democratic resolution to the nation’s political crisis.
Adding to the urgency are the concerns raised by the U.S. government regarding the last elections in Bangladesh. The U.S. has expressed several key issues:
1. Fairness and Credibility: The U.S. has raised concerns about the fairness and credibility of the electoral process. Reports of irregularities, voter intimidation, and violence have been highlighted as significant issues undermining the legitimacy of the elections.
2. Political Freedom and Human Rights: There have been concerns about the suppression of political freedom and human rights. The U.S. has pointed out the arrest of opposition leaders and activists, restrictions on media freedom, and the use of force against peaceful protesters as detrimental to a democratic environment.
3. Transparency: The U.S. has called for greater transparency in the electoral process, including the need for independent election monitoring and a level playing field for all political parties.
4. Violence and Intimidation: The occurrence of pre-election and post-election violence and intimidation tactics against opposition parties and their supporters has been a major concern. The U.S. has urged the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety and security of all voters and candidates.
5. Electoral Reforms: The U.S. has advocated for necessary electoral reforms to ensure future elections are free, fair, and transparent. This includes reforms to the Election Commission and measures to prevent electoral fraud and manipulation.
These concerns are part of the broader dialogue between the U.S. and Bangladesh on promoting democratic values and human rights, underscoring the need for significant changes to ensure a truly democratic and fair electoral process in Bangladesh.