Reforms, Elections, and Good Governance

Guests:

• Ferdous Siddiqui, PhD Researcher, Miyazaki University, Japan.
• Mohammad Ali Toha, Office Secretary, Bangladesh Student Rights Council Central Committee.

What Kind of Political Reforms Can Ensure Good Governance in the Country?

Ferdous Siddiqui, PhD Researcher, Miyazaki University, Japan:

To address this question, we must first understand the root causes of the current political climate. Why is it that a minister or politician can amass billions of taka? Why has such a situation emerged? The youth of Bangladesh have already shown us the path to political reform. The result is the continuation of healthy political practices. In the past, people’s right to speak was taken away, and there was no fair practice across all sectors. To establish good governance, journalists play the most significant role. Proper reforms require utilizing state institutions effectively, ensuring that political reforms lead to good governance.

How Urgent is the Need for Reforms in Bangladesh’s Constitution and Existing Laws, Particularly in Establishing Good Governance? How Can These Reforms Be Implemented?

Ferdous Siddiqui:

The current state of the system is like a cancer that has not spread overnight but has developed over a long period. Government officials, politicians, intellectuals, and journalists are all responsible for this. Reforms are essential to escape this dire situation. In Bangladesh, every sector has become politicized, and this did not happen in a day. It has been going on for years. As a conscious citizen, I must emphasize the need to implement citizens’ rights and protections. Comprehensive reforms are necessary to overcome the overall crisis.

Can Reforms or Good Governance Be Achieved Without Increasing Public Awareness? How Important is the Role of the People?

Mohammad Ali Toha, Office Secretary, Bangladesh Student Rights Council Central Committee:

We need a moral transformation. Without it, change cannot be achieved solely through laws and regulations. Every citizen must change from their position and become aware of their responsibilities. Here, I would say that even revolutionary governments have their weaknesses. The people must stand beside the police, and the police must remain steadfast in their moral duties. Only then can reforms and good governance be established.

Can an Interim Government Play a Significant Role in Establishing Good Governance, or Is Strengthening Local Governance the Solution?

Mohammad Ali Toha:

From the Prime Minister to the lowest level of government, including village police and local representatives, everyone must be held accountable. If this is done properly, change will surely come. We often think superficially, focusing only on receiving salaries at the end of the month and performing minimal duties. This mindset must change. In the future, we must work for the country and the state as our fundamental duty. Only then will a true system of good governance emerge, whether through government structures or local governance systems.

Insights Mirror will continue to bring such critical discussions to the forefront, aiming to contribute to a more informed and engaged society.