Participants, including teachers, students, politicians, journalists, and representatives from civil society, in a discussion in Sylhet expressed that youth leadership essential in ensuring a strong democracy and good governance in Bangladesh.
The event, titled “Rule of Law and Democracy in Future Bangladesh,” held on Monday afternoon at the Sylhet District Shilpakala Academy. It was part of the USAID-funded “Amio Jitte Chai” campaign organized by Democracy International.
Speakers highlighted the significance of ensuring equal rights for all citizens, conducting fair elections, and promoting transparency and accountability in governance. They also emphasized the crucial role of youth leadership in shaping the future of the country.
Samia Chowdhury, Vice President of the Sylhet District BNP, said that the core of the rule of law is ensuring equal rights for all citizens. She stressed that strengthening democracy is essential for establishing the rule of law in Bangladesh’s future.
Selim Awal, Head of the Sylhet Bureau of Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), called for fair elections to strengthen the democratic system. He also talked about the importance of transparency and accountability in ensuring good governance, while emphasizing the role of youth leadership in shaping the country’s future. He mentioned that young people have created new opportunities for the country’s development, making youth leadership crucial for the nation’s progress.
Tahseen Sharmin Tamanna, President of the Sylhet District Women’s Wing of the BNP, added that for a better Bangladesh, women must be given priority in all sectors. She highlighted the need to ensure equal rights and opportunities for women to help them contribute to the country’s progress.
The “Amio Jitte Chai” campaign, under USAID’s Strengthening Political Landscape (SPL) project, is running across Bangladesh. This initiative includes discussions, dramas, debates, and other activities at universities and districts. Through this campaign, citizens can share their views and demands on the website www.amiojittechai.com.
In addition to the discussion, the event featured an interactive theater, quiz and video message competitions, and a screening of campaign videos. During the event, participants shared their opinions on issues related to citizens’ rights. The winners of the competitions were awarded prizes.
Speakers at the discussion urged everyone to work towards building a Bangladesh free of discrimination. They reminded people that the responsibility to build the country lies with all citizens. They encouraged everyone to speak up and protest when they see injustice or wrongdoing. The importance of impartial voting rights and a fair democratic system was also emphasized, along with the need for an elected government to ensure progress.
The session was moderated by Naimur Rahman, Senior Regional Manager of Democracy International, and included speeches from Sabera Sultana, a faculty member at Leading University’s Law Department; Nigar Sultana Daisy, President of the Metropolitan Women’s Wing of BNP; Mahbubur Rab Chowdhury Faisal, Vice President of Sylhet District BNP; and Mukul Ahmed Morshed, a leader of the Metropolitan BNP.
