Before fair elections, we need consensus on reforms: Rizwana Hasan

A consensus on reforms is essential to gain public trust, and only then can a fair election be held to meet public expectations, said Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
She made the remarks while speaking to journalists after paying tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the National Memorial in Savar today (26 March) to mark the National Independence Day.
"A process has now begun to build consensus on various reforms. It will take time, as different individuals perceive issues differently, but it must move forward," she said.
"There is no alternative to reaching a consensus on the reforms that the people have demanded," she added.
Addressing the government's challenges, Rizwana Hasan pointed out that while every government faces routine challenges, the key task now is to establish a common ground for reforms.
"This is a process that must be carried out. Whether we call it a challenge or not, it remains a necessary step. Moving forward together on this will be crucial for us," she stated.
She also stressed that conducting a credible election is another priority.
"Another major task is to ensure a free and fair election that meets public expectations," she said.
Referring to the violence in July-August last year, she added, "We always talk about the brutal killings that took place then. Justice must be ensured. Within our limited time, we will make every effort to deliver verdicts in some of these cases so that people can feel that justice has been served."