Abstract:
The Parliament of Bangladesh, as the highest legislative body, plays a pivotal role in upholding
democratic accountability within the nation's political framework. This research delves into
the multifaceted role of the Parliament in ensuring democratic accountability, drawing insights
from the Bangladesh Constitution. The study examines the Parliament's legislative, oversight,
and representational functions, emphasizing their contributions to fostering accountability and
transparency in governance. The Parliament's legislative function entails the enactment of laws
that govern the conduct of public officials and institutions. By establishing legal frameworks
for accountability mechanisms, the Parliament sets the stage for effective checks and balances
within the government. The oversight function, exercised through parliamentary committees
and question periods, empowers the Parliament to scrutinize the actions of the executive
branch, ensuring that they adhere to the laws and policies enacted by the legislature.The
Parliament's representational function serves as a crucial link between the citizens of
Bangladesh and their elected representatives. Through parliamentary debates and public
hearings, the Parliament provides a platform for citizens to voice their concerns and hold their
representatives accountable. This direct engagement between the Parliament and the public
fosters a sense of ownership and participation in the democratic process. The research further
explores the challenges faced by the Parliament in fulfilling its accountability mandate. These
challenges include political party dominance, inadequate resources, and limited expertise
among parliamentarians. Despite these constraints, the Parliament has made significant
strides in recent years in strengthening its accountability mechanisms and upholding its role
as the guardian of democratic governance in Bangladesh.
