Staff Reporter :
The BNP on Tuesday submitted its 62 constitutional reform proposals to the Constitution Reforms Commission.
BNP’s Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed handed over the written proposals to Ali Riaz, Chairman of the Constitution Reforms Commission, at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban (parliament building) on Tuesday morning.
The BNP has proposed to limit the prime minister’s tenure to no more than two consecutive terms, reinstating the positions of deputy prime minister and vice president, introducing an upper house in Parliament, and bringing back the caretaker government system.
Besides, the party has called for the reintroduction of referendums to enhance public participation.
After the submitting the proposals, Salahuddin Ahmed told journalists, “From the preamble to the schedules of the constitution, we have proposed amendments and additions to 62 points. We hope the commission will consider our suggestions.”
“These reflect the aspirations of the people, the spirit of the martyrs of the July-August revolution, and the current realities of Bangladesh,” he said, adding that no parliamentary autocracy or dictatorship can emerge in the future.
A major amendment proposed by the BNP is limiting any individual from serving as prime minister for more than two consecutive terms.
The party also suggested reinstating the positions of vice president and deputy prime minister, and establishing an upper house in Parliament.
Salahuddin also said, “We have recommended creating a balance of power between the prime minister and the president.”
Over judicial reforms, he said, “We proposed that lower courts be brought under the control of the Supreme Court to ensure proper oversight.”
The BNP leader further highlighted the need for reinstating the caretaker government system, calling it ‘the number one demand of the people.’
He said that the matter is pending in court.
The BNP also called for constitutional provisions to allow referendums, which had been part of the country’s earlier democratic practices.
Salahuddin said, “We have tried to focus on all sides of the constitution, including the executive, judiciary, legislature, and Election Commission. Our aim is to ensure a democratic balance of power among all branches of the state.”
He said, the proposals are now with the commission, which is tasked with reviewing them and making recommendations to the interim government.
“The Chief Adviser has assured that the final decisions will be made in consultation with political parties and stakeholders,” he said.
“After finalizing the reforms, we believe there will be consensus on most points. For areas of disagreement, the parties can commit to incorporating agreed reforms into their electoral manifestos, ensuring future parliaments adopt them,” the BNP leader said.
