Ali Riaz expresses doubt over July charter signing

Professor Ali Riaz, Vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission, has expressed concern over the possible delay in unveiling the ‘July Charter’.

He raised the concern during the opening remarks of the seventh round of dialogue between the Commission and political parties held on Sunday (June 29) at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital.

“We had hoped to sign the ‘July Charter’ together on the death anniversary of Abu Sayeed,” Professor Riaz said. “But now, we are unsure whether that will happen.”

He said, “Its possibility depends on the political parties. Honestly, we are a bit worried.”

He further remarked that progress in discussions with political parties has not been very encouraging. Stressing the need to prevent any future constitutional reforms that go against public expectations, Riaz said, “This process must move towards a conclusion within the month of July.”

Professor Riaz underlined that meaningful progress is necessary in the reform talks for the sake of the country. “None of us want to return to the previous situation. So, we urge you to consider the national interest,” he told political leaders.

Addressing the parties directly, he questioned, “How much have we achieved from the commitments we made last July? Will we only think of our own party and personal interests, or will we also think of the nation’s interests?”

Today’s discussion topics included the Appointment Committee for constitutional and statutory bodies, a bicameral parliament, the election process for the upper house, and its responsibilities and role. As previous consensus was not reached on these subjects, no new topic was added to the agenda.