Ensuring accountability within Bangladesh’s parliamentary system is increasingly urgent, as the current unicameral structure faces significant challenges from executive dominance and the over-concentration of power. Expert consultations and debates involving both national and international scholars highlight profound concerns regarding the feasibility and contextual suitability of shifting from a unicameral to a bicameral system. Furthermore, an analysis of political leaders’ perspectives reveals varying motivations behind these reform proposals, ranging from genuine democratic restoration to strategic political positioning. While the introduction of a second chamber is often suggested as a check on the majority party, this study argues that such a move may not be a panacea. Instead, it recommends the establishment of an independent “Parliamentary Commission for Democracy” to provide oversight and legislative scrutiny and support. Ultimately, the report advocates for the strengthening of existing institutional structures such as empowering parliamentary committees, increasing private members’ participation, power sharing between PM and President and ensuring the independence of the judiciary and local governments. and judicial independence alongside targeted reforms to enhance legislative transparency and institutional resilience.
Authors: Khondaker Golam Moazzem, Nizam Ahmed, Rukaiya Islam
Publication Period: January 2026
