Introduction
Political Thinker, Writer and Organiser
Sarwar Tushar is a political thinker, writer and organiser who works on the state, politics, citizens’ rights and democratic transformation in Bangladesh.
He has long written and spoken about the concentration of state power, constitutional authoritarianism, enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings and the crisis of accountability in the security sector.
In his view, the democratic crisis in Bangladesh cannot be resolved merely by holding regular elections. What is needed is to rebuild the institutions of the state, establish a balance of power and create effective constitutional guarantees to protect citizens’ rights.
Writing and Intellectual Work
Sarwar Tushar’s writing on the state, power, violence and political institutions has created an important position in Bangladesh’s contemporary political discourse.
His writing has particularly focused on:
- How the authoritarian state operates
- Enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings
- Constitutional autocracy
- Accountability in the security sector
- Rebuilding democratic institutions
- Citizen's rights and political dignity
- A new constitution and political settlement
Political Journey
Sarwar Tushar’s political journey began with intellectual and civic resistance against state oppression, human rights violations and abuse of power.
After the July Mass Uprising, he became involved in building a new political force and turning the demand for state reform into an institutional political programme.
He serves as Joint Convener of the National Citizen Party. He was later given responsibility as Member Secretary of the Reform Implementation Committee and as a member of the party’s Political Council.
Core Political Beliefs
Citizen's Dignity
The state's primary responsibility is to protect citizens' lives, liberty, security and dignity.
Accountability of Power
State power can never be personal or party property. Every level of power must be accountable to the law, to institutions and to the people.
Independent Institutions
To sustain democracy, the judiciary, the Election Commission, parliament, local government and other constitutional institutions must work independently.
Political Pluralism
Differences of opinion, path and identity must be accepted not as something to be suppressed but as a natural strength of a democratic system.
Social Justice
Alongside political rights, equitable access to education, health, employment and economic opportunities must be ensured.
Brief Profile
- Name: Sarwar Tushar
- Political Party: National Citizen Party
- Current Responsibilities: Member of the Political Council and Joint Convener
- Reform Responsibilities: Member Secretary of the Reform Implementation Committee
- Areas of Work: State reform, the constitution, citizens' rights, human rights and democratic institutions