Senator Rahman Urges Reform, Justice in Bangladesh

Photo: collected

Bangladesh-born US State Senator Sheikh Rahman has called for immediate governance reforms and strengthened institutions in Bangladesh ahead of the upcoming national election, emphasising that democratic progress must be supported by structural change and accountability.

During his recent visit to Bangladesh, the Georgia State Senator met with various stakeholders, including officials, business leaders, and members of the public. He also returned to his birthplace in Sararchar village, Kishoreganj, where he celebrated Eid-ul-Azha with his 97-year-old mother — his first visit home in 45 years.

While acknowledging Bangladesh’s strides in infrastructure and economic development, Senator Rahman warned that corruption, weak law enforcement, and political interference continue to undermine progress. “Reforms are critical before the next election,” he said. “Elections alone are not enough to ensure true democracy.”

He called for exemplary punishment for individuals responsible for previous misrule and corruption, and urged the interim administration to prioritise reforms in the judiciary and police to restore public trust.

Referring to reports of illicit financial outflows, he advocated for Bangladesh to sign bilateral agreements with international partners to trace and recover stolen assets. “International institutions and networks can assist Bangladesh in this fight, but the government must act decisively,” he said.

Senator Rahman also urged a long-term commitment to democratic stability, suggesting a roadmap for transparent transfers of power over the next 25 to 30 years. “This is about building a sustainable democratic culture, not just winning one election,” he noted.

Highlighting the importance of institutional integrity, the senator called on politicians, civil servants, and business leaders to act with honesty and patriotism. “Nepotism must be rooted out. National responsibilities should go only to those who are qualified and ethical,” he said.

Senator Rahman expressed deep concern about the Rohingya refugee situation, calling it a major humanitarian challenge that requires urgent international attention. He voiced interest in visiting the refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, but said he had not yet received a response from the authorities.

“If Bangladesh seeks my assistance, I am ready to raise the issue of declining aid — especially funding from the United States,” he added.

Beyond politics, the senator urged greater environmental responsibility among citizens. “Wherever I travelled, I saw litter scattered everywhere. Clean surroundings reflect civic discipline and can enhance tourism,” he said.

Praising Bangladesh’s natural beauty and tourism potential, he pledged to promote the country in the United States, provided environmental conditions improve.

During his stay, the senator held a family reunion in Dhaka that brought together relatives and friends from across the country. He described the visit as "one of the most cherished moments of my life."

Earlier in April, Senator Rahman introduced a resolution in the Georgia State Senate expressing support for Bangladesh’s student-led reform movements and extending best wishes to the current interim administration for its commitment to democratic and civil service reforms.