The BNP has proposed a set of constitutional reforms, including the introduction of a bicameral parliament, revival of a caretaker government system, and recalibration of powers exercised by the president and prime minister. BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed handed over the written proposals to Ali Riaz, the head of Constitution Reform Commission at the parliament building on Tuesday morning.
In addition to Riaz, other members of the commission were also present during this time. The BNP submitted the written proposal in light of the 31-point reform proposal that they had previously made to overhaul the state structure.
Responding to the questions of the journalists, Salahuddin said: "We have proposed to reintroduce Articles 48, 56, and 142 of the Constitution, which had provisions for changes and referendums, which were removed by the Awami League."
“We have addressed all issues including the proposal, the republic, the executive branch, the judiciary, the legislative branch and the election commission, and schedule. We did this so that a democratic reform of the constitution is achieved and the people of Bangladesh can benefit from it.”
He also emphasised on the need for a “balance of power”.
When asked whether the interim government will be able to implement the proposals made by the BNP for constitutional reform, Salahuddin said: “The Constitutional Reform Commission will propose its recommendations to the government. The chief advisor of the interim government has said he will discuss it with everyone after the recommendations are given.”
He added that the interim government will finalise the proposals after discussing with political parties, stakeholders, experts, and people from different sections of society. “There may be disagreements in some cases. But if we commit to all the issues that everyone agrees with and reflect that in the election manifesto, then whoever comes to parliament in the future will change the constitution in that way.”
Messenger/EHM
