Amid rising calls for justice and reconciliation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain affirms the government’s intent to identify and address implementation delays in the 1997 Peace Accord
Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Saturday emphasized the government’s commitment to identifying and resolving the longstanding challenges that have stalled the full implementation of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Peace Accord.
Speaking to reporters after a key meeting of the CHT Accord Implementation and Monitoring Committee at the CHT Development Board Rest House in Rangamati, the adviser said, “This is my first meeting on the issue and there’s much to learn and understand. There have been long-standing challenges in implementing the Accord and identifying these problems is crucial. Once the problems are identified, we will be able to accelerate progress in its implementation.”
The CHT Peace Accord, signed in 1997, was a landmark agreement aimed at ending decades of armed conflict, political unrest, and ethnic tension in the southeastern hill districts. However, more than two decades later, many of its provisions remain only partially fulfilled, hindering lasting peace, inclusive development, and justice for tribals communities.
Terming the discussion “productive,” Touhid Hossain expressed optimism that with cooperation from all stakeholders, a meaningful solution could be achieved to bring stability and progress to the region.
CHT Affairs Adviser Supradip Chakma, who also attended the meeting, described the session as “a significant step toward peace, security, and development for the people of the region.” He reiterated the government’s belief that if all parties work together in good faith, permanent peace and sustainable development in the CHT is within reach.
“The committee will identify key implementation challenges and make recommendations to relevant ministries and departments. If necessary, sub-committees will be formed to move forward with specific tasks,” Chakma added.
The meeting decided that the Implementation and Monitoring Committee will immediately activate its operations, ensuring regular oversight, review, and accountability in fulfilling the Accord’s commitments.
Also present at the meeting were Jyotirindra Bodhipriya Larma (Santu Larma), chairman of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Regional Council, and Sudatta Chakma, chairman of the CHT Taskforce — both long-time advocates for tribals rights and autonomy in the hill tracts.
