Several prominent citizens in Bangladesh have expressed strong disapproval over the national Parliament’s decision to repeal multiple reform ordinances. This move has sparked anger and condemnation as it overlooks public expectations and contradicts commitments made by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) government. Critics warn that repealing these ordinances undermines reform efforts and raises doubts about the government’s commitment to its promises.
A joint statement by 31 distinguished citizens highlighted that civil society and the public had long demanded the passage of these ordinances to address enforced disappearances and ensure the right to information. They emphasized that a special committee of the 13th parliament had recommended passing 98 of 133 ordinances unchanged, while suggesting the repeal of some reform-related ordinances and their reintroduction later as amended bills, as reported by Bangladesh’s newspaper The Daily Star.
The signatories described the repeal as a setback to the aspirations of the country’s people. They criticized the decision to repeal ordinances related to fundamental reform, judicial independence, and human rights, despite objections from the opposition party. This move was seen as contradictory to the current government’s election manifesto and its stated commitments, leading to strong protests from the citizens.
The citizens also denounced proposals to subject the Right to Information (Amendment) Ordinance and the Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Remedy Ordinance to additional scrutiny, deeming such actions undesirable. They expressed concerns about the effectiveness of the Human Rights Commission, noting that successive governments had failed to make it functional despite pledges. The signatories urged urgent amendments to meet international standards and ensure proper redress for victims of human rights violations.
According to the citizens, the repeal of the Supreme Court Secretariat measure could erode judicial independence and revive executive influence over subordinate courts. They called on the government to pass the ordinances through parliament, warning of potential public protests and active programs if this is not done.
