Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman said the government needs cooperation from all sides to reach a reasonable point in its reform agenda. Speaking as chief guest at a Center for Governance Studies discussion at CIRDAP auditorium in the capital on Monday, he said the government views constructive criticism positively and wants to move forward through review, advice and consultation.

He said citizens have the right to criticize the government, which it is constitutionally obliged to protect, and described political parties’ criticism as a normal part of democracy. The minister said efforts are being made to move away from a past culture in which writers, journalists, cartoonists and others faced harassment or arrest for expressing views. He added that laws and policies can be amended when implementation shows a need for change.

On constitutional reform, Asaduzzaman said the government is proceeding with the July Charter in mind while preserving the constitution’s basic structure. He called for consultation with political parties and stakeholders, said opposition and other political representation was sought on the reform committee, and urged constructive participation. He also highlighted judicial independence, accountability in human-rights complaints, a new Anti-Corruption Commission, and transparent state institutions.