Political factors are deemed more crucial than legal aspects in the implementation of the July Charter, according to Ali Riaz, the special assistant to the chief adviser. Riaz emphasized that in the realm of politics, the primary consideration should be political in nature, surpassing legal considerations. He stressed the importance of aligning with the will of the people and the support shown for political parties, highlighting the need for coordination among them, a responsibility he believes falls on politicians.
Regarding the obligations of the party poised to lead the government, the BNP, in executing the reforms, Riaz pointed out that the referendum reflects the sovereignty of the people. Therefore, he asserted that all political entities, including the BNP, bear a moral and political duty. Riaz, a former vice president of the National Consensus Commission, urged parties not to solely focus on legal statutes but to acknowledge and address the political landscape.
The referendum’s proposals, which received direct approval from the populace, should be respected and implemented, especially by the BNP, which has historically claimed to represent public sentiments. Riaz expressed hope that the party would uphold these expectations while governing and revising the constitution. Notably, the referendum outcome is now a collective agenda encompassing the government, state, and all political factions, transcending individual party manifestos.
Riaz emphasized the significance of adhering to the mandate expressed by the people through the referendum, noting that the formation of an upper house of parliament within six months is a pivotal step in the reform process. He highlighted that the ruling party and other political groups will collaborate to determine the specific priorities for implementation. Riaz called for unity among political stakeholders, inside and outside parliament, to ensure the realization of the public mandate for reforms through constructive dialogue.
Responding to queries about assuming a new role, Riaz expressed his desire to promptly resume his professional endeavors.