Enact laws on MPs’ code of conduct, special privileges - Says Badiul Alam

Shushashoner Jonno Nagorik (Shujan) secretary Badiul Alam Majumdar yesterday called for enacting two separate laws on lawmakers’ code of conduct and special privileges.

He termed those essential for building a democratic Bangladesh and for the parliament to succeed.

He made the remarks at a discussion titled ‘‘Structural Reform of State’’, organised by Nagorik Oikya, a civil society platform, at Dhaka Reporters Unity in the capital.

“A large portion of lawmakers are businessmen, creating conflicts of interest. That is why a code of conduct law is needed so that their wealth does not turn them into oligarchs as in the past,” he explained.

“The other law required is on MPs’ special privileges. If any lawmaker’s corruption or misconduct undermines the dignity of parliament, action must be taken against them. Article 78 of the Constitution provides for this, but the law has not yet been enacted. It must be passed,’’ he added.

He urged vigilance so old methods do not return, warning that it would bring no good to anyone otherwise.

“The existing structure remains, and there is strong reluctance to change it. If we continue with this structure, there is a real possibility of returning to the old methods,” he added.

Badiul further said the decision to allow MPs to sit in upazila offices will erode the foundation and structure of democracy, as the MPs will end up running local government, which goes against articles 65 and 59 of the Constitution.

Presiding over the event, Nagorik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna said the current parliament resists reforms, even though BNP and Jamaat once jointly opposed the Awami League.

He proposed forming a Parliamentary Coordination Council to turn Consensus Commission’s reform talks into law, stressing that while full agreement is unlikely, national interest must come first, and unity is essential to move the country forward.

Writer-researcher Altaf Parvez said discussions on structural reform in parliament are increasingly being delayed, though such reforms must be addressed.

“We must move forward on the basis of consensus, or else we will fall behind again,” he added.