Photo: Collected
Amending the constitution through an ordinance is possible, said National Consensus Commission Vice-Chairman Professor Ali Riaz, regarding the implementation of key reform proposals. Speaking at a press conference at the LD Hall of the National Parliament Building today (10 March), he stated, "Amending the constitution through an ordinance is possible. The constitution has been amended through an ordinance in Bangladesh before. Which was later approved by the elected parliament."
His remarks came as the commission announced that it had sought opinions from 34 political parties on major recommendations from five reform commissions. The commission has put forward 166 recommendations, including 70 on constitutional reforms, 27 on the electoral system, 23 on the judiciary, 26 on public administration, and 20 on the Anti-Corruption Commission.
Professor Riaz said that parties have been asked to submit their opinions by 13 March. Discussions will be held on areas of agreement and priority issues to form a national charter. Political parties have been requested to respond to each recommendation by selecting one of three options: 'agree,' 'disagree,' or 'partially agree.' Letters have already been sent to the 34 parties and alliances seeking their views, he confirmed.
"Once we receive their opinions, we will begin direct discussions with party representatives. No specific date has been set, but discussions will commence as responses come in," he said. He urged political parties to submit their opinions promptly, stating, "The next step of this process depends on the parties. We aim to reach a consensus and create a national charter within a short time."
Messenger/JRTarek
