Editorial
Implementing CHT peace accord
A consensual approach needed
TWELVE years of Chittagong Hill Tracts accord provided an occasion for not only stocktaking as to where we stand in terms of realisation of its provisions but also for some hard thinking on the part of people who have a stake in accelerating the process of its implementation. The observance of the twelfth anniversary of the signing of the accord has therefore served a useful purpose by providing an in-depth reappraisal of the CHT situation. Practically, it has been as much a matter of commemorating an auspicious turning point in the history of Bangladesh in that it ended 25 years of insurgency, conflict and bloodshed in Chittagong Hill Tracts through political means as one of regrets and soul searching over why some major provisions of the accord remain unimplemented even to this day.
While taking heart from the AL-led Mahajote government's efforts to push the process of implementation forward by means of a national committee and the task force, we would urge the government to try a new approach in materialising some important provisions set out in the accord. There has been talk of a review of the agreement in a bid to remove the weaknesses of the accord. We think, this suggestion should be heeded to respond to contemporary ground realities, strengthened in the fundamental belief that the accord brought peace in the region and upon its full implementations benefits would accrue to all sides.
Let's not forget, land disputes between the indigenous people and the settlers from plain land are at the heart of implementation problems. By all means, the land commission which has done very little since its inception in 2001, should be revitalised and its modus operandi determined in consultations with all the stakeholders. Importantly, the question relating to constitutional guarantee may be addressed. The powers of the CHT regional council should be clearly laid down. It is important from the representational and participatory points of view that elections be held to the regional and district councils.
We endorse the suggestion from the civil society that the existing CHT regional council, the land commission and the CHT accord implementation committee should deliberate among themselves as well as with the leaders of the indigenous communities and the Bangalees to resolve the problems of implementation.
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