Ali Riaz hopes BNP will act on upper house formation based on referendum verdict
Responding to a question about the referendum on the formation of the upper house, he noted that the referendum question referred to a “proportional representation” system, while the manifesto of the winning political party mentioned an “allocation based on seats.”
Special assistant to the Chief Adviser Prof Ali Riaz has expressed hope that BNP will take steps on the formation of an upper house of parliament in line with the public mandate reflected in the referendum.
Ali Riaz, also vice-chairman of the National Consensus Commission, made the remarks at a press conference held at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital this afternoon (14 February).
Responding to a question about the referendum on the formation of the upper house, he noted that the referendum question referred to a "proportional representation" system, while the manifesto of the winning political party mentioned an "allocation based on seats."
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Ali Riaz said BNP's manifesto position reflects its party stance, but the verdict delivered through the referendum is different in nature.
"We believe BNP has previously played a leading role in major reforms. In 1991, although the party did not initially pledge a parliamentary system, it incorporated it into the Constitution in response to public aspirations. Therefore, we hope that this time as well, it will act based on the public mandate and discussions," he added.
According to media reports, BNP submitted notes of dissent on nine constitutional reform proposals under the July National Charter, including the proposal that the upper house be formed proportionally to the number of seats held in the lower house.
On implementation of the July Charter, Ali Riaz said the July National Charter (Reform of Constitution) Implementation Order, 2025, clearly states that a "Constitution Reform Council" will be formed by elected members of parliament. "They will take two oaths, one as MPs and another as members of the reform council. The council's tenure will be 180 days."
He added, "The notes of dissent have now turned into a public mandate, and people want them implemented. We hope the majority party and all other parties will consider this aspiration."
In response to another question, Ali Riaz said the referendum verdict was based on the proposals presented to voters and that political parties have a responsibility to respect public expectations. "Issues should be resolved through discussion in the 'Constitution Reform Council' and parliament rather than by literal interpretation alone."
He also noted that many citizens participated only in the referendum and did not vote in the parliamentary election.
According to official figures, 7,76,15,023 voters cast ballots in the referendum, representing 60% turnout, which was one percentage point higher than turnout in the parliamentary election.
