Role of Parliament in Ensuring Democratic Accountability: An Analysis in the Light of Bangladesh Constitution

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.