TDS Desk:

Newly elected Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal on Sunday expressed optimism that Jatiya Sangsad (JS) would evolve into a dignified, effective and truly democratic institution through neutrality, cooperation among lawmakers and adherence to parliamentary traditions.

Delivering his introductory speech in parliament after assuming office, he thanked all Members of Parliament (MPs) for electing him and placing their confidence in him.

“I feel deeply honoured to take on the responsibility of Deputy Speaker of this great parliament. I express my sincere gratitude to the honourable Prime Minister, the Leader of the House and all MPs for their trust,” he said.

He also conveyed heartfelt thanks to the people of Kolmakanda-Durgapur constituency (Netrakona-1) for their support in electing him to parliament.

Recalling the nation’s history of sacrifice, Kayser Kamal paid tribute to the martyrs of Liberation War and freedom fighters who secured country’s independence.

He also remembered Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Bir Uttam, highlighting his role in proclaiming independence, establishing multi-party democracy and rebuilding the state.

The Deputy Speaker paid tribute to former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, acknowledging her leadership in anti-autocracy movement and her role in restoring parliamentary democracy in 1991.

Highlighting the significance of the 2024 student-led mass uprising, he described it as a historic movement that helped restore democracy.

He paid tribute to those killed during the July-August movement, including Abu Sayeed, Wasim Akram and Mir Mugdha, and expressed sympathy for those injured.

Quoting Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA), he emphasized the importance of accountability in leadership and urged lawmakers to guide him so he can fulfil his duties effectively.

He described the Jatiya Sangsad as the centre of the country’s democratic structure, reflecting the will of the people through elected representatives.

He added that parliament is not only a lawmaking body but also a key institution for ensuring government accountability.

Stressing the foundations of democracy, he said it rests on the rule of law, human rights and strong constitutional institutions. Referring to AV Dicey’s theory, he noted that all individuals, regardless of status, are subject to the law.

The Deputy Speaker underscored the importance of both the government and opposition in a parliamentary system.

“The opposition is not an adversary but an essential part of democracy. A strong opposition strengthens parliamentary credibility,” he said, calling for unity on national issues.

Citing British thinker Edmund Burke, he said parliament represents the collective interests of the nation rather than individual or conflicting interests.

Kayser Kamal assured MPs that he would perform his duties with neutrality and fairness, safeguarding the rights and dignity of all members.

He noted that he had already resigned from his government and party positions to maintain impartiality.

He added that parliamentary proceedings would be conducted in line with the Constitution, Rules of Procedure and established traditions.

Drawing on his academic experience in the United Kingdom, he expressed confidence in strengthening Bangladesh’s Westminster-style democracy through mutual respect and cooperation.

He also stressed that maintaining the dignity of parliament is a shared responsibility and that differences of opinion should be expressed respectfully and logically.

Describing the current parliament as historic, he said many members have endured imprisonment, exile and political repression, making it a rare example in global parliamentary history.

Expressing gratitude to Almighty Allah, he said he felt privileged to serve as a representative from a middle-class farming background and called for collective efforts to build a just and welfare-oriented state.

In conclusion, he expressed hope that with the cooperation of all lawmakers, the Jatiya Sangsad would become more dignified, effective and democratic.

“May Almighty Allah guide us all on the path of truth and justice. Bangladesh Zindabad,” he said.