TIB warns of govt retreat from key reform commitments

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) on Monday voiced concern that the government may be retreating from key reforms on judicial independence, human rights, anti-corruption, and the prevention of enforced disappearances, raising doubts about its commitment to institutional strengthening.

Speaking at a press conference at TIB's Dhanmondi office in the capital, its Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman said it was becoming increasingly difficult for the organisation to trust the [BNP] government, as its actions did not reflect its stated commitments.

"We want to trust their statements," he said. "But it is difficult, because we do not see those commitments reflected in practice."

The briefing presented TIB's position on the fate of 133 ordinances issued during the interim government's tenure, which were placed before the 13th Jatiya Sangsad in line with constitutional requirements.

A parliamentary special committee has recommended converting 98 of these ordinances into law without changes -- a move TIB welcomed.

However, Iftekharuzzaman cautioned that several ordinances contained significant weaknesses, some of which appeared deliberate.

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