Bangladesh stands at a crossroads, striving to forge a society rooted in justice, equality, and prosperity.

The interim government holds a crucial responsibility in this pivotal time, as both the world and the Bangladeshi citizens look on with optimism and expectation.

We envision a future where our nation embodies the principles of equality, a harmonious balance of power, and an unwavering dedication to democracy. The sacrifices of countless individuals who fought for these ideals inspire us to remain steadfast in our pursuit.

The world acknowledges the interim government's endeavors to stabilize Bangladesh and guide it toward a just and progressive path. Yet, this marks only the initial step.

Bangladesh's future rests on a shared dedication to the core values of justice, democracy, and accountability. This duty extends beyond the interim government to encompass all stakeholders within the nation's political and civil domains.

At the core of our vision lies the principle of equality and equity. Bangladesh must guarantee equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic background.

Equity demands proactive state support for marginalized and disadvantaged communities, ensuring a just allocation of resources and opportunities. This approach is not only a moral imperative but also vital for the nation's sustainable progress.

To achieve this objective, Bangladesh needs a well-balanced power distribution to prevent any one institution or group from becoming too powerful.

The executive, legislative, and judicial branches must operate both independently and collaboratively, maintaining a system of checks and balances.

It's especially crucial for the judiciary to remain free from political influence, as it acts as the guardian of justice and the Constitution. An independent judiciary is indispensable for upholding the rule of law and preserving public faith in democracy.

Moreover, visionary leadership is indispensable for tackling both domestic and international challenges. Bangladesh's foreign policy should be designed to promote national interests while fostering regional cooperation and global partnerships.

As the nation strives to elevate its economic and geopolitical standing, it's imperative for its leaders to be forward-thinking, innovative, and receptive to collaboration.

Just as vital is the necessity for accountability at every level of government. A responsible administration must be transparent, responsive, and answerable to its citizens.

This necessitates strong institutions that uphold integrity and combat corruption. Public officials should adhere to the highest ethical standards, ensuring their actions prioritize the nation's welfare over personal gain.

Parliament needs to re-center its focus on its core function of lawmaking. A concerning trend has emerged recently where members of parliament are deeply involved in development activities, tasks better suited for the executive and local government bodies.

Parliamentarians should prioritize crafting legislation that tackles the country's challenges and upholds democratic principles, leaving development initiatives to those equipped with the expertise to manage them effectively.

The stakes couldn't be higher. Bangladesh's future hinges on its leaders honoring the sacrifices of those who fought, and often died, for justice, equality, and democracy.

The countless students and citizens who protested for a brighter future must not have done so in vain. They envisioned a Bangladesh where the law applies equally to all, leaders are held accountable, and democracy thrives.

Should the interim government and its successors fail to uphold these principles, the nation risks a perilous future.

The very foundation of our society, built on the hopes, dreams, and sacrifices of countless individuals, hinges on our leaders' dedication to justice, democracy, and the people. Failure is unacceptable.

The world is observing, and Bangladesh must confront this challenge with courage and resolve.

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Jobayer Hossain is the Country Coordinator for Malaysia & Singapore, Amnesty International UK