Constituent assembly to be convened for charter reform: Nahid

Md Nahid Islam, one of the key figures behind the July-August mass uprising, announced that a Constituent Assembly would be convened to reform the country's charter, aligning with the movement's goal of restructuring the nation. 

Nahid, who is now part of the interim government as the adviser for information, broadcasting, post, telecom, and ICT, shared his views during a meeting with Australian Acting High Commissioner Nardia Simpson on Sunday.

During the discussion, Nardia Simpson and her team explored several bilateral issues, with a particular focus on ICT projects. 

Clinton Pobke, the deputy head of mission in Bangladesh, inquired whether the constitutional reforms would be completed before the general election or if an outline would be presented to the elected government. 

In response, Nahid said, "Since we aim to restructure the country, reforming the constitution is essential. We want the people's voice to be reflected in the constitution. Discussions have already begun with various political parties. The constitution will be reformed by convening a constituent assembly, following all due processes."

It was the first time anyone from the interim government spoke about the process of reforming the country, at a time when some political parties were demanding an outline of the procedure.

Nahid also expressed gratitude to the Australian government for congratulating the interim government at the beginning of the talks. He emphasised that this government, rooted in the student movement, is dedicated to rebuilding a new Bangladesh and requires Australia's cooperation in this effort.

Highlighting the potential of Bangladesh's youth in information technology, Nahid requested Australia's assistance in further enhancing their skills, particularly in cyber security. 

The Australian side offered projects—AI-Based Solutions and the Cable Connectivity and Resilience Centre. The AI-based solutions are designed to provide real-time translations for indigenous languages like those of the Chakma and Marma communities.

Regarding the priorities of the Australia in the IT sector, Nahid remarked, "We want to build an information technology sector that reflects the aspirations of our people."

Nahid underscored the need for international prosecution of the atrocities committed during the student movement, seeking Australia's cooperation in bringing global attention to the brutal treatment of Bangladesh's protesting students.