Consensus on PM's term likely in next meeting: Ali Riaz
Three parties — BNP, BLDP, and NDM — have requested time to consult their policymakers on the matter, he says
Highlights:
- BNP, BLDP, NDM seek time for internal consultations
- Consensus Commission to present written proposal on constitutional principles
- BNP suggests lifetime term cap for PM, decision pending
- The party rejects 15th Amendment, calls for pre-amendment return
- Jamaat supports 10-year lifetime cap for prime minister
- It backs 15th Amendment and core constitutional values
- Islami Andolan demands proportional representation in elections
- Communist Party insists on preserving 1972 Constitution principles
Discussions on the Prime Minister's term limit and the fundamental principles of the Constitution took center stage during today's dialogue between the National Consensus Commission and political parties, the commission's Vice-Chair Ali Riaz has said.
Speaking to reporters after the dialogue, Ali Riaz said, "While a close agreement was reached on the Prime Minister's tenure, three parties — BNP, BLDP, and NDM — have requested time to consult their policymakers due to the issue's connection with the NCC and the concept of an upper house."
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He expressed optimism for a consensus in the next meeting.
Regarding the constitutional principles, Ali Riaz stated that the Consensus Commission will present a written proposal reflecting today's discussions and considering the sentiments of the political parties.
The meeting has been adjourned for two days to allow parties further internal deliberations, with the hope of achieving consensus thereafter, he added.
BNP seeks time for decision on PM's term
BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed said a decision on the Prime Minister's consecutive term was not reached at today's meeting.
The party reiterated its proposals from written documents and the 31-point agenda.
They additionally proposed a lifetime limit on a person's premiership, though specific details require further party discussion, intertwined with the establishment of the NCC and an upper house, he said.
Salahuddin emphasised the need for a "package discussion" for these interlinked issues.
On constitutional principles, Salahuddin stated that the principles' determination is pending.
While acknowledging discussions about the 15th Amendment, he cited a High Court verdict indicating that a decision would be made by the next parliament.
"If mandated, the BNP aims to incorporate equality, human dignity, justice, and democracy," he added.
The party seeks to revert to the pre-15th Amendment constitutional situation, which includes "Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim" and "trust and faith in Allah", explicitly rejecting the 15th Amendment.
Despite current disagreements, Salahuddin expressed continued hope for achieving consensus on minimum issues, acknowledging the NCC's efforts.
Jamaat backs 10-year lifetime cap for PM's tenure
Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb-e-Amir Ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher proposed a lifetime limit of 10 years for any individual serving as prime minister.
He mentioned that while BNP disagreed with this proposal and requested more time, Jamaat's focus is on ensuring both governmental stability and preventing the rise of authoritarian figures.
"We have agreed on key constitutional values such as equality, human dignity, and justice, and the 15th Amendment," he said, noting opposition from left-leaning parties.
"Despite some disagreements, we are hopeful and believe progress is being made," he added.
Islami Andolan Bangladesh demands proportional representation in elections
Islami Andolan Bangladesh emphasised electoral reform, particularly advocating for proportional representation in elections to the lower house.
The party spokesperson Gazi Ataur Rahman said, "There was general agreement on a 10-year term for the prime minister, but three parties, including BNP, opposed it. Regarding constitutional principles, there were mixed views, with many arguing that the 1972 Constitution doesn't fully reflect Bangladesh's socio-economic realities."
He criticised the influence of Indian and Pakistani constitutional models on Bangladesh's founding document, saying, "We support values like equality, dignity, and justice — but if the Constitution includes democracy, it must also incorporate full faith in Allah."
Party presidium member Professor Ashraf Ali Akon added that the proportional representation system would ensure full public representation and make parliament more inclusive and functional.
Communist Party firm on upholding 1972 Constitution's original principles
Bangladesh Communist Party leader Ruhin Hossain Prince stressed the party's firm stance on upholding the 1972 Constitution's original principles.
"Some view these principles as partisan. It is true the constitution has imperfections, but the values of 1972 must remain intact. Only those who opposed independence are resisting these principles," he said.
"We are open to additions, but not to replacing the existing foundational values. There is no scope for compromise on this," he added.
