Dhaka, Sept. 15 -- Speakers at a discussion on Tuesday stressed the need for legal and institutional reforms to prevent excessive executive power and ensure the independence of state institutions responsible for accountability, saying such measures are essential to protect democracy and human rights.

They also called for inclusive and collective efforts, regardless of political affiliation or ideology, to reform the state and establish accountable governance.

The speakers made the observations at a discussion titled "Democracy, Human Rights and Accountable Governance," organised by Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) at its Dhanmondi office, marking International Day of Democracy.

TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said ...