Jamaat to sue govt, Consensus Commission if July Charter lacks legal basis: Taher

The Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami will file a case against the government and the National Consensus Commission if the July Charter is not given a clear legal foundation, party's Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher said today (31 July).

"We believe relying on promises alone won't suffice. Without a legal basis, this charter is meaningless. For that reason, we will file a compensation lawsuit against both the government and the commission if this issue remains unresolved," Taher said while speaking to reporters during the lunch break on the 23rd day of ongoing dialogue with the Consensus Commission.

"We have made it clear — we want election under proportional representation (PR) system, and most other parties support this as well," said Taher, adding, "The commission has said it will make a decision after the break. We hope that decision will be positive."

He highlighted the time and effort invested in the dialogue process, stating, "We have worked tirelessly; you have all witnessed it. But if the outcome is not implemented, everything we have done will be meaningless. Even taking an oath would carry no weight without real implementation. That is why implementation is crucial."

He added, "This charter, without legal backing, is null and void. We have clearly said we will not sign it without a legal foundation. It must be enacted during the current government's term. Implementation could begin as soon as tomorrow."

Reflecting on the dialogue process, he said, "In the past 23 days, we have seen more 'notes of dissent' than in the previous 22 days combined. Still, this is part of democracy — dissent is a right. But if the majority supports it, then it should be accepted."

Taher insisted that providing a legal basis is both possible and necessary. "There are viable alternatives and precedents. Those claiming it cannot be done now are misleading the nation."

"We are reiterating our demand — a legal foundation is essential. Without it, signing this charter is meaningless. There is no difference between signing and not signing such a document," he said.

He further emphasised, "This is not just our view. The upper house is meant to act as a balance of power. While legislation will originate in the lower house, the upper house will play a guiding and supervisory role."