[🇧🇩] Consensus Commission.

[Saif]

Reform Process: Prof Yunus gives directives towards next steps

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday gave necessary directives towards next steps on the reform process as the National Consensus Commission reviewed the progress of the ongoing discussions with political parties. He made the directives during a meeting with the members of the National Cons

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Reform Process: Prof Yunus gives directives towards next steps
UNB
Published :
Apr 28, 2025 22:32
Updated :
Apr 28, 2025 22:32

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday gave necessary directives towards next steps on the reform process as the National Consensus Commission reviewed the progress of the ongoing discussions with political parties.

He made the directives during a meeting with the members of the National Consensus Commission held at the State Guest House Jamuna.

The meeting was chaired by the head of the Commission and Chief Adviser to the interim government Prof Yunus, and a detailed discussion was held on the reform process, said the Chief Adviser's press wing.

Commission Vice-Chairman Prof Ali Riaz informed the head of the Commission about the discussions that have already been held with the political parties.

Commission members Dr Badiul Alam Majumder, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Justice Emdadul Hoque and Safar Raj Hossain also participated in the meeting.

Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, Industries and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, and Special Assistant to the Chief Advisor Monir Haider were also present.​

 

[Saif]

CPB opposes rewriting the constitution

The party reaffirmed their support for major structural reforms and emphasised their strong opposition to any move toward constitutional reform.

en.prothomalo.com

National consensus commission
CPB opposes rewriting the constitution
Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 13 May 2025, 22: 50

The consensus commission holds a dialogue with the CPB at the national parliament on 13 May, 2025. Prothom Alo

The Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) has opposed rewriting the constitution and proposed the introduction of a proportional representation (PR) system in national parliamentary elections.

CPB president Mohammad Shah Alam made the statement after a meeting with the National Consensus Commission, held at the LD Hall of the national parliament on Tuesday. The meeting began at 10:30 am and continued until 2:00 pm.

Speaking to the media, Shah Alam said, “They (the consensus commission) did not retain our four fundamental principles (in constitution). We disagreed on that point. In short, we are against rewriting the constitution.”

Referring to the mass uprising in 2024, Shah Alam said it was rooted in an anti-dictatorship sentiment, not in opposition to the liberation war or the 1972 constitution. “These issues were brought up later, creating unnecessary controversy. I urged them not to get involved in that controversy. If it is done, the consensus commission would get itself in the controversy.”

He reaffirmed their support for major structural reforms and emphasised their strong opposition to any move toward constitutional reform that seeks to revert the country to its previous state in 1947.

CPB general secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince said the three-and-a-half-hour meeting discussed reforms to the constitution, the election commission, and the Anti-Corruption Commission. He noted that the CPB had disagreements with the consensus commission on several issues.

They, however, agreed on two-term prime ministership for an individual, increasing the number of seats reserved for women, introducing direct elections to those seats, and strengthening parliamentary democracy, said Ruhin Hossain.

He added that they proposed constitutional recognition of ethnic communities, recognition of basic necessities of life as a fundamental right, and making the state responsible for ensuring those necessities. The party also strongly recommended introducing a proportional representation system in elections.

Underscoring the need for reforms by an elected parliament, Ruhin Hossain said, “Since the upcoming national election is our main issue, no controversial issue should be brought up that might delay it. Therefore, we want to move forward to the election after reforming the electoral system as soon as possible.”

The 11-member CPB delegation included assistant general secretary Mihir Ghosh; presidium members Professor AN Rasheda; Kazi Sajjad Zahir Chandan, Aniruddha Das Anjan, central committee leaders Kazi Ruhul Amin, Ragib Ahsan Munna, Sajedul Haque Rubel, Abid Hossain, and Professor Fazlur Rahman.

On the other side, National Consensus Commission vice-chairman Professor Ali Riaz and members Justice Md Emdadul Haque, Badiul Alam Majumder, Safar Raj Hossain, and Iftekharuzzaman were present. Monir Haider, special assistant to the chief adviser (consensus development), moderated the session.​

 

[Saif]

Consensus Commission wants to move towards a national charter soon: Ali Riaz

Jamaat-e-Islami submitted its opinion to the National Consensus Commission on the proposals of the Reform Commission on 20 March this year.

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Consensus Commission wants to move towards a national charter soon: Ali Riaz
BSS Dhaka
Published: 18 May 2025, 16: 06

The National Consensus Commission (NCC) holds an extended meeting with Jamaat-e-Islami at the LD Hall of the National Parliament Building in Dhaka on 18 May 2025. PID

National Consensus Commission Vice-chairman Professor Ali Riaz on Sunday said the commission wants to move towards a national charter by establishing a consensus as soon as possible.

He said this at the beginning of the extended meeting with Jamaat-e-Islami at the LD Hall of Jatiya Sangsad (JS) here, said a commission release.

He said the commission will conclude the initial stage of discussions with the political parties in a day or two and will soon start the second phase of discussions to create a national charter.

Commission Members Justice Md. Emdadul Haque, Dr. Badiul Alam Majumder, Safar Raj Hossain, Dr. Iftekharuzzaman and Md. Ayub Mia and Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Monir Haider were present.

Nayeb-e-Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher led the party’s 11-member delegation in the meeting.

Jamaat-e-Islami submitted its opinion to the National Consensus Commission on the proposals of the Reform Commission on 20 March.

In that context, the commission held discussions with the party on 26 April. Extended discussions were held on Sunday on the unfinished issues of that day, said the release​

 

[Saif]

People will be informed about issues on which consensus hasn’t been reached: Ali Riaz

People will soon be informed about key unresolved issues, including reforms to the state structure, in order to help them to ease their decision making process in future, National Consensus Commission (NCC) vice-chairman professor Ali Riaz said on Sunday. He made the remark while presiding...

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People will be informed about issues on which consensus hasn’t been reached: Ali Riaz
BSS Dhaka
Published: 25 May 2025, 20: 10

National Consensus Commission vice-chairman professor Ali Riaz presides over a discussion with civil society members in Dhaka on 25 May 2025 PID

People will soon be informed about key unresolved issues, including reforms to the state structure, in order to help them to ease their decision making process in future, National Consensus Commission (NCC) vice-chairman professor Ali Riaz said on Sunday.

He made the remark while presiding over a discussion with members of civil society in the capital’s Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB).

“Our main objective is to build consensus on fundamental and reform related issues as part of drafting the national charter,” Ali Riaz said.

He, however, said differences are inevitable due to diverse political and ideological stances of various political parties, and it is unrealistic to expect consensus on every issue.

“We will soon inform the people about the issues on which consensus could not be reached,” he stated.

The consensus commission went on, saying, “We believe that transparency is crucial in earning the people’s trust and ensuring their cooperation in future political decision-making. This principle has guided us at every step of the way as we move forward.”

Ali Riaz emphasised that all are at a crucial turning point in history, which has brought tremendous opportunities.

“However, challenges arrive with every opportunity, and the complexities of this moment are particularly demanding as we strive for institutional and structural reforms within the state framework—a formidable task,” he added.

Expressing optimism that society will seize this historic moment, he remarked, “We bear the burden of 53 years of national endeavours, 16 years of relentless struggle, and the sacrifices made—especially during the July-August mass uprising, marked by bloodshed and loss.”

“From that sense of duty and responsibility, we hope that everyone will make efforts from their respective positions to bring about as much structural change as possible,” he expected, saying that, “We hope that the opinions shared by all present here today, as representatives of responsible citizens, will support and assist us.”

Ali Riaz emphasised that reform must go hand in hand with consensus, noting that “without the active involvement of civil society, the reform process cannot progress.”

“As mentioned earlier, our goal is to formulate a National Charter. We will strive to ensure that the opinions shared here are reflected not only in the National Charter being developed but also in the report we aim to prepare alongside it,” he added.

Commission members Badiul Alam Majumder, Safar Raj Hossain, Iftekharuzzaman and Md Ayub Mia and chief adviser’s special assistant Monir Haider were present.

Led by former ambassador Humayun Kabir, civil society representatives - Appellate Division’s retired justice Abdul Matin, security analyst Maj. Gen. ANM Muniruzzaman, professor Giti Ara Nasrin, professor Syeda Sultana Razia, professor Samina Lutfa, professor Waresul Karim, professor Mirza Hasan, BRAC University, Ashrafun Nahar Mishti, President of Puja Udjapan Parishad Basudeb Dhar, and human rights activist Ilira Dewan joined the discussion.​

 

[Saif]

No consensus yet over some basic reform issues: Prof Ali Riaz

The National Consensus Commission is yet to reach an agreement among political parties on several crucial reform issues, including the chief and tenure of a caretaker government, the term limit for a prime minister and the formation of the National Constitutional Council (NCC). “Consensus ha

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

No consensus yet over some basic reform issues: Prof Ali Riaz

Published :
May 26, 2025 21:05
Updated :
May 26, 2025 21:05

The National Consensus Commission is yet to reach an agreement among political parties on several crucial reform issues, including the chief and tenure of a caretaker government, the term limit for a prime minister and the formation of the National Constitutional Council (NCC).

“Consensus has not yet been achieved on some important constitutional questions...,” said Vice Chairman of the Commission Prof Ali Riaz at a press briefing held at the LD Hall of the Jatiya Sangsad Complex on Monday, UNB reports.

These issues, he said, include the framework for the judiciary decentralisation, the appointment of the chief adviser to the caretaker government and its term, the formation of the National Constitutional Council (NCC), the term-limit for a prime minister, the number of portfolios an MP can hold, the method of electing the president and the process for amending the constitution. “These fundamental structural issues remain unresolved.”

He shared the commission's progress in building a consensus on state reform initiatives

Prof Ali Riaz, however, said many parties showed compromising attitudes over the important issues during their talks with the commission and suggested further discussion.

He said though the political parties agreed in principle on many recommendations of the Constitutional Reform Commission, there needs to be further discussion on the issues.

According to his written speech, there is no disagreement among the political parties over the restoration of the caretaker government.

Most political parties suggested refraining from writing ‘pluralism’ alongside ‘equity, human dignity, social justice and democracy’ as the basic principles of the state in the Constitution. They agreed in principle to form a bicameral parliament, although a few favoured retaining a unicameral structure, he said.

All the parties supported the formation of the 100-seat upper house, but how its members would be elected remains unresolved.

Although the majority of parties supported the proportional representation of votes as recommended by the Constitutional Reform Commission, no consensus was achieved in this regard.

There is a kind of consensus among the parties on the issue of reserving 100 seats for women in the lower house. But, there is a difference of opinion on its method.

All parties supported a proposal to appoint an opposition lawmaker as Deputy Speaker.

There is also a consensus on amending Article 48(a) of the Constitution, which defines the president’s powers, but parties differ on how to balance power between the president and the prime minister.

On the contentious Article 70, which bars MPs from voting against their party, most parties agreed to amend it. They want the bar lifted except in cases such as constitutional amendments, passage of the finance bill, and votes of confidence. Some parties also want the restriction to remain for state security-related bills.

Nearly all parties agreed on allocating the chairmanship of key parliamentary committees—such as the Public Accounts Committee, the Estimates Committee, the Public Undertakings Committee, and the Privileges Committee—to opposition lawmakers.

ACC Reform Proposals:

Political parties have largely agreed in principle to support all the recommendations of the Anti-Corruption Commission Reform Commission.

All parties agreed on the recommendation to enact laws to resolve and prevent conflicts of interest, to prevent the abuse of state and legal power.

Most of the political parties backed the proposal to give the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) constitutional recognition as an institution, as well as agreed in principle on the proposal to create the post of Ombudsman.

Recommendations for Judicial Reforms

All parties backed the creation of a Supreme Court secretariat to effectively separate the judiciary from the executive, and supported the recommendation that judges displaying political allegiance or views should be subject to disciplinary action.

The parties supported ending the president’s authority to appoint the Chief Justice and instead proposed appointing the most senior justice of the Appellate Division—or one of the top three senior justices—to the role.

All parties agreed in principle on enacting a Presidential Pardon Act to form a Pardon Board, allowing the president to act on its recommendations. However, one or two parties expressed dissent.

Electoral System Reform

Most of the parties agreed in principle on the establishment of a separate independent constituency delimitation authority. However, there are differences of opinion on this issue.

Reactions were mixed regarding the proposal to present the Election Commission’s legal, financial, and administrative proposals to an all-party parliamentary committee led by the Upper House Speaker, rather than the relevant ministries.

Most parties also agreed that any post-term complaint against election commissioners should be investigated by a proposed parliamentary committee and, based on its findings, forwarded to the president for action.

Public Administration Reform

Most parties agreed to create an independent investigation commission to identify and act against those involved in the July mass uprising atrocities and those accused of electoral fraud or corruption.

They also supported, in principle, the formation of three separate eight-member Public Service Commissions by restructuring the existing Public Service Commission.

Parties expressed mixed reactions to a recommendation for forming District and Upazila Citizen Committees—composed of people from different professions—to monitor ministries' works, similar to parliamentary standing committees.

Most supported restoring civil and criminal magistrate courts at the upazila level, in consultation with the Supreme Court as well as the formation of an independent and permanent Public Administration Reform Commission.

Prof Ali Riaz said the Consensus Commission will soon start the second round of talks in a bid to build a national consensus over reforms. During the second phase of the talks, the unresolved issues will be discussed, he added.

“We hope that it will be possible to prepare a national charter by July through the second round of discussions with political parties,” he said.

In response to a question, he said the Commission will prepare the national charter, but it will be up to the political parties to chart the implementation path, and the government will ultimately execute it.

Consensus Commission members Dr Badiul Alam Majumdar, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Justice Emdadul Haque, Safar Raj Hossain, Md Ayub Miah, and Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Monir Haider were present.

The Consensus Commission opened a series of talks with political parties on March 20 last to forge a national consensus on state reform initiatives undertaken by the interim government.

The Commission held talks with 33 parties and alliances including BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and National Citizen Party (NCP), before concluding the first round of dialogues on May 19 last.

Formed on February 15, 2025, under the leadership of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, the Commission was tasked with shaping a unified national stance on critical reforms.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh consensus commission fails to find agreement

Bangladesh's National Consensus Commission, tasked by the interim government to lead critical democratic reforms after a mass uprising last year, said Monday that political parties had failed to reach agreement. The South Asian nation of around 170 million people has been in political turmoil...

en.prothomalo.com

Bangladesh consensus commission fails to find agreement

AFP Dhaka
Updated: 26 May 2025, 21: 00

National Consensus Commission vice-chairman professor Ali Riaz presides over a discussion with civil society members in Dhaka on 25 May 2025PID

Bangladesh's National Consensus Commission, tasked by the interim government to lead critical democratic reforms after a mass uprising last year, said Monday that political parties had failed to reach an agreement.

The South Asian nation of around 170 million people has been in political turmoil since former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted by a student-led revolt in August 2024, ending her iron-fisted rule of 15 years.

Muhammad Yunus, the 84-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner who is leading the interim government as its chief adviser until elections are held, has previously said he inherited a "completely broken down" system of public administration.

Yunus has said it required a comprehensive overhaul to prevent a future return to authoritarian rule. He set up six commissions to do that work, overseen by the Consensus Commission, which he heads.

Ali Riaz, the commission's vice president, said that despite marathon efforts they had not reached a deal.

"It wasn't possible to reach a consensus on several significant constitutional issues," Riaz told reporters in Dhaka, saying talks stretched over 45 sessions.

"We have been discussing 166 recommendations with 38 political parties and alliances."

Riaz, a political science professor at Illinois State University, said the teams would not give up.

"We are going to begin a second round of talks," he said, adding that the country's statistics bureau would "conduct a household survey to gauge public opinion". The commission plans to include 46,000 families in the survey.

Contentious issues include whether a prime minister can serve more than two terms, and the process for selecting the president.

The procedure for appointing the chief of the interim government, and the duration of its tenure, has also divided parties, Riaz said.

Parties also debated recommendations to change the terms of the constitution from "secularism" to "pluralism".

Bangladesh is a Muslim-majority nation, with Hindus accounting for less than a tenth of the population.

"Although most parties rejected the idea of pluralism, they recommended incorporating some form of protection for minorities," he said.

'No rift'

Yunus warned on Saturday that political power struggles risked jeopardising gains that have been made, carrying out two days of talks with more than 20 political party leaders.

Hasina's rule saw widespread human rights abuses, including the mass detention and extrajudicial killings of her political opponents.

Her government was also accused of politicising courts and the civil service, as well as staging lopsided elections to dismantle democratic checks on its power.

Yunus has said polls could be held as early as December but that holding them later -- with the deadline of June 2026 -- would give the government more time for reform.

On Saturday, Yunus met with the key Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), seen as the election front-runners, who are pushing hard for polls to be held by December.

The military insisted at a press conference on Monday that there was no division with Yunus.

It was the first address to the media since army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman gave an address to officers on 21 May.

He said that elections should be held by December, aligning with BNP demands, according to Bangladeshi media and military sources.

"There is no rift between the government and the Bangladesh Army," Lieutenant Colonel Muhammad Shafiqul Islam told reporters.

"We share a cordial relationship and are working together for the sake of the country."​

 

[Saif]

‘Without reforms, even fair polls can lead to rulers becoming tyrants’

Says Badiul Alam Majumdar

www.thedailystar.net

‘Without reforms, even fair polls can lead to rulers becoming tyrants’
Says Badiul Alam Majumdar

Photo: Collected

Badiul Alam Majumdar, member of the National Consensus Commission and Secretary of Shujan (Citizens for Good Governance), has cautioned that even a free and fair election without structural reforms could lead to authoritarian rule.

Speaking at a discussion titled "National Charter and Citizen Expectations", organised by Shujan at the RDRS auditorium in Rangpur, Badiul emphasised that fundamental reforms were the core demand of those who sacrificed their lives during the July uprising, including Shaheed Abu Sayeed.

"Without reforms, elections alone cannot prevent the return of autocracy. Even a fair election could result in a government turning into a tyranny," he warned.

Badiul expressed hope that on Abu Sayeed's martyrdom day, political parties would reach agreements on constitutional and institutional reforms.

While acknowledging that some changes could be implemented through ordinances, he stressed that major reforms require political consensus.

He urged citizens to remain vigilant and proactive in supporting the proposals outlined in the National Charter.

Majumdar advocated for a bicameral parliamentary system, suggesting that the upper house should consist of half partisan and half non-partisan representatives to ensure broad societal representation.

"An upper house could oversee decisions made in the lower house, preventing policies that go against public interest," he explained.

Addressing concerns over student politics, Majumdar stated that while students should engage in political and cultural activities, they must not become militant enforcers for political parties.

"We do not seek to ban student politics, but we must end the culture of blind allegiance among students, teachers, and professionals," he asserted.

He also urged political parties to reform their internal structures, ensuring that candidates are selected based on merit and integrity.

"Only honest, competent, and public welfare-oriented individuals should receive nominations," he emphasised.

Badiul stressed the need for financial transparency within political parties, warning that lack of accountability could weaken democracy.

"If parties fail to ensure financial transparency, democratic institutions will remain fragile," he cautioned.

The discussion also featured academics and civil society representatives, who proposed measures to empower women, uplift marginalised communities, depoliticise education and healthcare, and strengthen democratic practices.​

 

[Saif]

Consensus Commission to begin second round of reform talks on Monday

The National Consensus Commission is set to begin the second phase of reform discussions with political parties and other stakeholders on Monday, following the conclusion of its initial round of talks in May. Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, who also chairs the commission, will inaugurate the new rou

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Consensus Commission to begin second round of reform talks on Monday

Published :
Jun 02, 2025 00:31
Updated :
Jun 02, 2025 00:31

The National Consensus Commission is set to begin the second phase of reform discussions with political parties and other stakeholders on Monday, following the conclusion of its initial round of talks in May.

Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, who also chairs the commission, will inaugurate the new round of meetings at 4:30pm at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, reports bdnews24.com.

The first phase of the commission’s dialogue ran from Mar 20 to May 19 and included extensive engagements with political parties on reform proposals.

The interim government formed six reform commissions in October 2024 after the fall of the Awami League administration amid mass protests on Aug 5. These commissions submitted their recommendations in February, leading to the formation of the National Consensus Commission on Feb 12.

The commission, comprising the heads of the constitutional, electoral, judiciary, Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), police, and public administration reform panels, was tasked with building consensus on key proposals and drafting a “National Charter.”

It officially began work on Feb 15 with a six-month mandate.

On Feb 28, the commission distributed printed versions of the six reform reports among all political parties.

A week later, on Mar 5, a spreadsheet summarising 166 key recommendations—70 on constitutional reform, 27 on electoral reform, 23 on judiciary reform, 26 on public administration, and 20 on the ACC—was shared with 38 political parties and alliances for their feedback.

Although the initial deadline for feedback was set for Mar 15, several parties requested extensions. Ultimately, 35 parties and alliances responded, with some submitting detailed commentary in addition to the completed spreadsheet.

Between Mar 20 and May 19, the commission held 45 sessions with 33 political parties and alliances, some of which participated in discussions across multiple days. The panel reported that these meetings led to agreements or partial consensus on several issues.

The second phase aims to build on that progress and move closer to finalising a framework for long-term governance reform.​

 

[Saif]

Can the consensus commission break the deadlock?

A collective dialogue should streamline the process and accelerate resolutions

www.thedailystar.net

Can the consensus commission break the deadlock?

Political leaders at the National Consensus Commission’s inaugural meeting. File photo: CA PRESS WING

Bangladesh stands at a pivotal moment in its political history, with plans to make democratic institutions functional and curb the risk of a return to autocracy.

At the centre of this initiative is the National Consensus Commission, which is working to build agreement among the country's political parties on key reforms.

These proposals—formulated by five commissions—focus on the constitution, judiciary, electoral system, public administration, and anti-corruption mechanisms.

In a country where political consensus has historically been elusive, the commission has held its first round of discussions with 33 political parties separately on 164 key recommendations.

Yet again these talks have revealed entrenched political rivalries and deep ideological divides.

One key area of consensus among political parties is the reinstatement of the non-partisan caretaker government system. While a majority supports its return, sharp disagreements persist regarding its formation, duration, and particularly the process for appointing the chief adviser of the caretaker government.

Equally contentious is the proposal to establish a National Constitutional Council to oversee major state appointments, including that of the chief adviser, who will head of the election time caretaker government. Proponents argue that such a body could help dilute the concentration of executive power, especially that of the prime minister.

Under the current constitutional framework, the president—except in appointing the prime minister and chief justice—is obligated to act on the prime minister's advice, granting the executive considerable control over appointments.

Other reform proposals have also sparked mixed reactions. These include limiting the prime minister's tenure to two terms, preventing any individual from simultaneously holding the positions of prime minister, leader of the parliament, and party chief, and a bicameral legislature, with a 100-member upper house. While the idea of a bicameral legislature has gained traction, debate continues over how members would be elected—whether by direct or indirect votes, or a hybrid system.

Reform of Article 70 of the constitution—currently prohibiting members of parliament from voting against their party—is another critical issue. Many support granting MPs more freedom, but argue that voting against the party line should remain prohibited in case of finance bills, no-confidence motions, and constitutional amendments.

Parties also expressed diverging views on other proposals like amending laws to bar individuals accused of war crimes from contesting elections and "pluralism" as a fundamental principle of the state.

These disagreements once again show how much the country's political parties are divided ideologically.

Bangladesh has found itself poised at similar critical junctures before, and faltered.

The first opportunity for democratic consolidation was lost soon after independence, when a one-party system was introduced. That period was followed by a series of coups and military regimes.

The second chance came after the fall of the Ershad regime in 1990. The then interim government created 29 task forces in 1991, and over 250 national experts prepared reform plans across sectors including the economy, environment, energy, and politics. But those reports were ultimately shelved by successive governments.

Political parties have broken their promise and failed to fulfill the 'Tin Joter Ruprekha' (roughly translated to the Tri-alliance Outline), agreed to at the final stage of anti Ershad protest which aimed to establish a permanent democratic order.

Now, the country faces its third and arguably most critical chance. Failure to forge a comprehensive agreement could deepen polarisation, erode trust in political parties, and eventually stall the democratization process once again.

Reform must not be reduced to a zero-sum game of power redistribution. Rather, it should aim to build a transparent, accountable, and inclusive system—one that prevents the drift toward autocracy and reflects the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people.

Unless political leaders rise above narrow partisan interests and embrace a spirit of compromise, the Consensus Commission's efforts may grind to a halt.

The stakes are too high to let this moment slip away. For Bangladesh to chart a democratic future, political parties must acknowledge the weight of history, act with responsibility, and commit to building a shared national vision.

Thus far, the interim government, through the commission, has listened to parties separately. Today it begins joint meetings with all parties. Instead of repeated discussions with separate groups, a collective dialogue should streamline the process and accelerate resolutions.

When parties engage in discussions together, they gain a clearer understanding of each other's positions, concerns, and priorities, which can encourage compromise, and in turn lead to a lasting democratic dispensation.​

 

[Saif]

Consensus Commission’s second round of talks resume Tuesday

National Consensus Commission will restart its second round of the reform dialogue with political parties on Tuesday to finalise recommendations and prepare the July Charter

en.prothomalo.com

Consensus Commission’s second round of talks resume Tuesday

UNB
Published: 15 Jun 2025, 20: 36

National consensus commission Chairman Ali Riaz Prothom Alo file photo

The National Consensus Commission will restart its second round of the reform dialogue with political parties on Tuesday to finalise recommendations and prepare the July Charter.

The talks will begin at 11:00am in the capital's Foreign Service Academy, said a press release on Sunday.

The unfinished discussion over the Article 70 of the constitution, the chairmanship nomination for parliamentary standing committees and the women representation in parliament will be held.

Besides, two new issues --the bicameral parliament and the appointment of Chief Justice -- will be discussed on that day.

The National Consensus Commission will also hold talks on 18 and 19 June, but the agenda for the two days have not been informed yet.

On 2 June, Chief Adviser and Commission Chairman Prof Muhammad Yunus opened the second round of the dialogue and then the commission sat with political parties just for a day (3 June) to discuss three reform issues.

Nearly 30 parties, including BNP, Jamaat, and the National Citizen Party (NCP), joined the June 03 talks presided over by Commission vice chairman Prof Ali Riaz.

Three issues -- the Article 70 of the constitution, the chairmanship nomination for parliamentary standing committees and the women representation in parliament - were widely discussed.

The Consensus Commission started its first round of talks with political parties on 20 March to forge a national consensus on state reform initiatives undertaken by the interim government.

The Commission held talks with 33 parties and alliances including BNP, Jamaat and NCP before concluding the first round of dialogues on 19 May.

Formed on 15 February, 2025, under the leadership of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, the Commission was tasked with shaping a unified national stance on critical reforms.​

 

[Saif]

2nd round of NCC dialogue resumes tomorrow

The second round of the National Consensus Commission-led dialogue with political parties will resume on Tuesday after a 13-day break for the Eid-ul-Azha holiday.

www.newagebd.net

2nd round of NCC dialogue resumes tomorrow
Staff Correspondent 16 June, 2025, 00:01

The second round of the National Consensus Commission-led dialogue with political parties will resume on Tuesday after a 13-day break for the Eid-ul-Azha holiday.

An NCC press release issued on Sunday said that the agenda for the dialogue includes the reform of Article 70 of the constitution, the selection of parliamentary standing committee chairpersons, representation of women in the legislature, the possibility of a bicameral parliament and the appointment process of the chief justice.

The second round of the NCC dialogue has drawn special attention in the political arena as chief adviser Professor Mohammad Yunus and BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman agreed during a meeting in London on Friday that Bangladesh’s next national elections could be held in mid-February 2026.

A joint statement issued after the meeting quoted Professor Yunus as saying, ‘In that case, sufficient progress on reforms and trial will need to be made by that time.’

Most political parties in Bangladesh welcomed the outcome of the London meeting as a positive and constructive step towards a democratic transition, seeing it as a potential breakthrough in the ongoing political stalemate.

In response, the BNP and several other parties have begun outlining election-centric programmes, signalling a shift towards preparations for potential participation in the upcoming national election.

In the backdrop of this development, the second round of the NCC dialogue is expected to play a crucial role in encouraging both political parties and the government to finalise the July Charter, which outlines key reform issues.

NCC vice-chairman Ali Riaz and representatives of participating political parties will brief journalists following the meeting, while Bangladesh Television News will broadcast the proceedings live, the release added.

The interim government, led by chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, also the NCC chair, formed the commission on February 12 to build political consensus on state reform issues.

The urgency of state reforms arose after the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, 2024 amid a mass uprising.

Professor Yunus inaugurated the NCC-led dialogue with political parties on February 15.

Following feedback from political parties on 166 key reform proposals submitted by five commissions covering constitutional, judicial, electoral, public administration and Anti-Corruption Commission reforms, the NCC began party-individual dialogues on March 20.

By May 19, a total of 33 political parties participated in the first round of the NCC-led dialogue. All sessions were held at the LD Hall of Jatiya Sangsad in Dhaka.

The second round of dialogue was inaugurated by the chief adviser on June 2 at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka.

Before the Eid vacation that began on June 5, the NCC held two days of all-party dialogue.

The drafting of a political consensus-based national charter by July is the expected outcome of the ongoing dialogue.​

 

[Saif]

Jamaat will return to consensus dialogue, government fully neutral: Press Secretary

The Jamaat-e-Islami will attend the second day of the National Consensus Commission’s fresh round of talks despite skipping the opening session, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has said. The clarification came on Tuesday afternoon following criticism that t

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Jamaat will return to consensus dialogue, government fully neutral: Press Secretary

Published :
Jun 17, 2025 21:09
Updated :
Jun 17, 2025 21:09

The Jamaat-e-Islami will attend the second day of the National Consensus Commission’s fresh round of talks despite skipping the opening session, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has said.

The clarification came on Tuesday afternoon following criticism that the interim government was “favouring” the BNP in the political process, reports bdnews24.com.

Shafiqul shrugged off the claims, saying the caretaker administration has maintained “full neutrality”.

Speaking at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka’s Bailey Road, the press aide said: “The Jamaat-e-Islami will join [on Wednesday]. We’ve spoken with them.

“Missing one day is fine. They’ll be fully present [on Wednesday].”

When asked about Jamaat’s absence from the first session, he said he did not know the reason.

Jamaat’s Assistant Secretary General Hamidur Rahman Azad declined to comment when asked in the afternoon.

Earlier in the morning, he said “We didn’t join [Tuesday’s] meeting in protest.”

Asked if the party would join the next day, he said: “Can’t say yet. We’ll discuss and decide.”

The day’s session began at 11:30am with representatives from 30 political parties, but no one from Jamaat was seen in the room.

Later it emerged that Jamaat “boycotted” the session in protest of a joint statement issued after a meeting in London between Yunus and BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.

Jamaat’s deputy chief Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher said Jamaat would not join the second phase of the dialogue.

Despite a 30-minute delay in starting, Jamaat’s seat remained empty throughout.

As the lunch break began, several journalists asked Yunus’s Special Assistant (Consensus Affairs) Monir Haider why Jamaat had not turned up.

He said: “Jamaat-e-Islami has symbolically boycotted [Tuesday’s] session.”

When asked if the boycott was linked to the Yunus-Tarique meeting in London, he said: “You can take it that way.”

Asked to respond to Jamaat leaders claiming they were upset by the London statement, the press secretary said: “We’re not aware of any such issue.”

On concerns from Jamaat and the NCP over alleged bias towards BNP, he said, “We believe we’re maintaining maximum neutrality. We consider everyone who took part in the July mass uprising to be a stakeholder. I don’t think the allegation is true. From all angles, we’re neutral.”

On concerns from the Jamaat and the National Citizen Party (NCP) over the government’s allegedly one-sided attitude towards the BNP, Shafiqul said: “We believe we are maintaining maximum neutrality.

“Everyone who took part in the July Uprising is considered a stakeholder. I don’t think the claim is true. In every sense, we are neutral.

“All parties and groups involved in the July movement are being given equal importance. No one is being treated differently,” he added.

Later, the commission’s Vice President Ali Riaz alo said: “The government has been in touch, and they [Jamaat] will attend [on Wednesday].”​

 

[Saif]

Parties agree lawmakers’ freedom to vote in JS

All the 29 political parties attending the meeting on the third day of the second round of National Consensus Commission-hosted dialogue on Tuesday agreed that lawmakers could vote against bills except the finance bill and confidence motion, going against...

www.newagebd.net

Parties agree lawmakers’ freedom to vote in JS
Discussion over women’s reserved seats, bicameral JS deferred
Staff Correspondent 17 June, 2025, 22:09

Vice-chairman of the National Consensus Commission Professor Ali Riaz speaks at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Tuesday. | BSS photo

All the 29 political parties attending the meeting on the third day of the second round of National Consensus Commission-hosted dialogue on Tuesday agreed that lawmakers could vote against bills except the finance bill and confidence motion, going against their respective parties.

To free lawmakers from absolute party domination, the politicians overwhelmingly agreed to reform the related Article 70 of the constitution that bars lawmakers from going against their parties.

This political agreement will be included in a national charter to be finalised by July, said NCC vice-chair Professor Ali Riaz.

However, the meeting decided to keep the Bangladesh Nationalist Party-proposed bar on lawmakers from voting against any bill related to constitutional amendment and war-time national security as a note of descent in the charter.

Inaugurated by the interim government’s chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on June 2, Tuesday’s meeting of the NCC’s second-round dialogue with political parties held at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital Dhaka.

Although delegates from major political parties, including the BNP, were present at the meeting, the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami abstained from attending Tuesday’s meeting.

Participants of the meeting discussed the reform in Article 70, the selection of parliamentary standing committee chairpersons, the representation of women in the legislature, the proposed bicameral parliament and the appointment process of the chief justice.

The meeting witnessed the majority agreed on a bicameral legislature and increasing women’s representation in the parliament, though the issues were deferred amid huge debates on the composition of the bicameral legislature and the electoral process of the reserved seats for women.

BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said that political parties would reach a consensus on reforms and advance for the much expected national election through the series of dialogues.

In the meeting, most of the parties agreed to make opposition lawmakers the chairs of the parliamentary committees on public accounts, privilege, estimation and public undertakings.

Regarding the representation of women in the legislature, most of the parties, including the BNP, the Revolutionary Workers Party of Bangladesh, the Ganosamhati Andolan, the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal-JSD and parties under the Left Democratic Alliance, agreed to increase the reserve seats for women from the existing 50 to 100.

However, many parties opposed the Electoral Reform Commission-proposed rotational nomination system for women’s reserved seats while some others expressed their reservation on increasing the reserved seats.

Islami Oikya Jote secretary general Mawlana Shakhawat Hossain Razi questioned quota for women while Islami Andolan Bangladesh senior joint secretary general Maolana Gazi Ataur Rahman said, ‘There is no relevance of increasing the number of reserved seats for women with the movement against the fascist Awami League regime.’

Parties, including the National Citizen Party, the Communist Party of Bangladesh, the Socialist Party of Bangladesh (Marxist) and the Bangladesh Labour Party, recommended direct election to 100 reserved seats for women while the Ganosamhati Andolan supported a rotational nomination system for women to contest the reserved seats by direct vote.

Amid huge debates on the nomination criteria and the election process of the reserved seats for women, the NCC decided to postpone the discussion over the particular issue until the next week.

Regarding the Constitution Reform Commission-proposed bicameral legislature, NCC vice-chair Ali Riaz said that more than two-thirds of the parties in the previous meetings agreed to the proposed bicameral legislature.

At Tuesday’s meeting, many parties, including the BNP, the Rashtra Sangskar Andolan, the Islami Andolan Bangladesh, the Khelafat Majlish, the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal-Jasod, the JSD, the NCP, the Amar Bangladesh Party and the Ganosamhati Andolan, supported the bicameral legislature.

The parties, however, recommended that the upper house should be of 100 members instead of the proposed 105.

However, parties, including the CPB, the Gano Forum and the Socialist Party of Bangladesh disagreed ‘in principle’ to the proposal.

Amid huge debates on the election process for the upper house, the NCC postponed the related discussion until the next meetings.

At Tuesday’s meeting, the majority of the parties agreed that the president should appoint the chief justice from among two most senior judges of the Appellate Division.

Despite debates over the role of the Supreme Judicial Council and the relevance of the recently issued Supreme Court Judges Appointment Ordinance, 2025, in the context of appointing the chief justice, the NCC vice-chair said that further discussion would help reach a consensus among the parties on the issue.

NCC members Badiual Alam Majumder, Iftekharuzzaman, Safar Raj Hossian, Ayub Ali, Justice Emdadul Haque, and chief adviser’s special assistant Monir Haidar were present at Tuesday’s meeting.

After the meeting, the NCC vice-chair and the politicians briefed journalists.

Today’s meeting of the second round of the dialogue will be held at the same venue. The agenda of the today’s meeting include the proposed National Constitutional Council and the appointment of the president, said a NCC press release.​

 

[Saif]

NCP calls for scrapping 4 fundamental principles of ’72 constitution

The National Citizens Party (NCP) has called for the abolition of the four fundamental principles of the 1972 constitution. “We have made it clear that we do not support retaining the Mujibist fundamental principles of ‘72. These principles must be removed,” the party’s joint convenor Javed...

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Talks with consensus commission
NCP calls for scrapping 4 fundamental principles of ’72 constitution

Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 22 Jun 2025, 22: 48

NCP leaders talk to the media after the discussion on 22 June 2025 Prothom Alo

The National Citizens Party (NCP) has called for the abolition of the four fundamental principles of the 1972 constitution.

“We have made it clear that we do not support retaining the Mujibist fundamental principles of ‘72. These principles must be removed,” the party’s joint convenor Javed Rasin stated.

He made the remarks today, Sunday, in the capital’s Foreign Service Academy, following discussions between political parties and the National Consensus Commission aimed at concluding earlier unfinished dialogues.

Rasin further said, “There was a proposal from the Constitution Reform Commission—to include democracy alongside equality, human dignity, and social justice as the four fundamental principles. During the meeting, political parties showed disagreement over this issue. We clearly stated that we do not support retaining the Mujibist fundamental principles of 1972. Those must be removed.”

He also noted that some political parties, due to their ideological positions, could not agree to remove these four original principles.

“We responded by saying that there is no point in discussing matters here if they contradict the spirit of the 5 August student–people uprising. Therefore, the four principles of 1972 must be excluded, and other subsequent principles may be added,” he stated.

However, no consensus was reached among the political parties on this matter.

NCP’s senior joint member secretary Tasnim Zara said that the current system requires the tenure of the prime minister to be limited. She said discussions were held on this topic, including how long one individual should be allowed to remain in office.

“We proposed that an individual should be allowed to take oath as prime minister no more than twice. But in the interest of consensus, everyone seemed to agree on a maximum of 10 years. We are flexible on the timeframe,” she added.

Today’s discussion with the National Consensus Commission included participation from 30 political parties including BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, the Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB), Islami Andolan, Gono Odhikar Parishad, and Ganosamhati Andolan.

Chief adviser’s special assistant Monir Haider moderated the meeting.

Other attendees included the commission’s vice-president professor Ali Riaz, members Safar Raj Hossain, justice Emdadul Haque, Badiul Alam Majumdar, Iftekharuzzaman, and Mohammad Ayub Miah.​

 

[Saif]

All but 3 political parties agree on term limit of PM: Ali Riaz

Most political parties have agreed that no individual should serve as prime minister for more than 10 years, except for three including BNP.

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All but 3 political parties agree on term limit of PM: Ali Riaz
Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Updated: 22 Jun 2025, 21: 52

National Consensus Commission's Vice President Professor Ali Riaz during the meeting with political parties on 22 June Prothom Alo

Most political parties have agreed that no individual should serve as prime minister for more than 10 years in their career, except for three including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), professor Ali Riaz, vice-president of the National Consensus Commission said on Sunday.

"After lengthy discussions, we reached a clear position that a person cannot remain prime minister for more than 10 years. However, we have yet to reach full consensus as three parties opposed the proposal and asked for reconsideration," he stated.

Professor Ali Riaz made these comments today after the second round of talks between the National Consensus Commission and political parties at the Foreign Service Academy on Bailey Road in the capital.

Speaking about the discussions with political parties, he said, "We focused on two main topics throughout the day: the term limit of the prime minister and the fundamental principles of the constitution."

On the term limit issue, Ali Riaz said most parties agreed on a 10-year cap, but BNP, NDM, and BLDP differed, requesting further discussion after internal consultations. These parties argued that this issue is linked with other matters, particularly the formation of the NCC and the structure of the upper house.

Regarding the second discussion point, Ali Riaz mentioned that the Constitutional Reform Commission had presented a proposal on the constitution and the state's guiding principles.

Taking into account the sentiments and positions of various parties, the consensus commission will prepare a final proposal emphasising equality, human dignity, social justice, and democracy, he added.

Ali Riaz also said that the meetings were adjourned for the next two days at the request of political parties so they can discuss these matters at their policymaking levels.

"We hope this break will help resolve the remaining unresolved issues," he added.

Today’s discussion with the National Consensus Commission aimed to conclude previously unfinished talks and included 30 political parties such as BNP, Jamaat, NCP, Islami Andolon, Gono Odhikar Parishad, and Ganosamhati Andolan.

Moderated by the chief adviser’s special assistant Monir Haidar, commission members Safar Raj Hossain, Justice Emdadul Haque, Badiul Alam Majumdar, Iftekharuzzaman, and Mohammad Ayub Mia, were also present at the meeting.​

 

[Saif]

Political parties still split over PM’s term

Most political parties on Sunday agreed to limit the tenure of the prime minister, but a complete consensus was not reached.

www.newagebd.net

Political parties still split over PM’s term
Staff Correspondent 22 June, 2025, 23:34

Focus Bangla photo

Most political parties on Sunday agreed to limit the tenure of the prime minister, but a complete consensus was not reached.

The parties also favoured adopting equality, social justice, and human dignity as fundamental principles of the state.

But the divergence in their interpretations and procedural approaches stalled the sixth-day discussion of the second round dialogue under the National Consensus Commission, prompting the comission vice-chair Professor Ali Riaz to adjourn the session attended by 30 political parties.

The dialogue session was as usual held at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka. The issue of limiting the prime minister’s tenure dominated the opening discussion, which began at 11:00am.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said that his party agreed on two consecutive terms, adding that their decision on the PM’s tenure depended on the formation of a proposed National Constitutional Council and the electoral process for a bicameral Jatiya Sangsad.

In Sunday’s meeting, BNP’s Salahuddin made a fresh suggestion that a year-based limit might be more pragmatic than a term-based one.

Earlier in the first-round NCC dialogue, the BNP agreed on a two-consecutive-term cap, but with an option for the two-term PM’s re-appointment after a gap.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami nayeb-e-ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher also proposed a 10-year cap.

National Citizen Party joint convener Zaved Rasin and Rashtra Sanskar Andolan leader Syed Hasibuddin Hossain questioned the BNP’s logic behind linking the PM’s tenure to other issues.

In the Sunday’s meeting, National Democratic Party secretary general Mominul Amin, National People’s Party chair Fariduzzaman Farhad, Bangladesh Labour Party chair Mostafizur Rahman Iran, Jamiat Ulama-e Islam secretary general Maulna Manjurul Islam Afandi, Aam Janata Dal leader Sadhana Mahal backed the previous proposal from the BNP on the issue of PM’s term.

The Revolutionary Workers Party of Bangladesh general secretary Saiful Huq and Socialist Party of Bangladesh general secretary Bazlur Rashid Firoz expressed support for a lifetime two-term limit.

Islami Andolan Bangladesh senior joint secretary general Gazi Ataur Rahman dismissed the debate as irrelevant, arguing that a competent PM should not be bound by any time limit.

As politicians were getting stuck to a single point for an extended period of time, Communist Party of Bangladesh general secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince warned against backtracking on earlier points of consensus, while Amar Bangladesh Party joint general secretary Suny Abdul Haque expressed frustration over the delays.

Amid requests from several politicians, including Ganosamhati Andolan chief convener Zonayed Saki, NCC vice-chair Professor Ali Riaz deferred the discussion until Wednesday to allow parties time to review the issue in their respective party forums and refine their positions.

After the lunch break, the focus shifted to reforming the fundamental principles of the constitution.

In 2011, the Awami League-led parliament passed the 15th amendment to the constitution, reinstating democracy, nationalism, secularism, and socialism as the fundamental principles, which were introduced in the 1972 constitution.

Citing outcomes of the NCC’s first-round dialogue, Ali Riaz said on Sunday that the proposed fundamental principles of the reformed constitution included religious liberty and harmony, along with the reform commission’s earlier recommendations of equality, social justice, human dignity, and democracy.

Political parties, including the CPB, SPB, Revolutionary Workers Party of Bangladesh, and Jatiyo Gono Front, backed maintaining the existing fundamental principles and adding to those the commission-proposed ones.

On the contrary, religion-based parties like the IAB, Islami Oikya Jote, Khelafat Majlish, and Nezam-e-Islami voted for upholding ‘absolute trust in Allah’ and removing ‘secularism’ and ‘socialism’.

Opposition to the existing four principles was voiced by NCP’s Zaved Rasin, who dismissed the Sheikh Mujibur Rahman-era ideals, while IAB’s Gazi Ataur Rahman viewed that secularism no longer matched the belief of the majority of Muslims in the country.

Meanwhile, parties like the Ganosamhati Andolan, Rashtra Sanskar Andolan, and Nagorik Oikya turned down any move towards a majoritarian state.

BNP’s Salahuddin proposed amending these principles in the future, depending on electoral mandates.

In the earlier meetings, the BNP recommended fundamental principles outlined by the fifth amendment to the constitution in 1979 that removed ‘secularism’ from the 1972 constitution and inserted in it ‘absolute trust and faith in the Almighty Allah’.

Jamaat’s Taher supported both ‘absolute trust in Allah’ and the reform commission-proposed fundamental principles. He suggested that a referendum might offer the ultimate resolution.

Despite Jamaat’s Taher asserting that most parties supported the commission’s proposed fundamental principles, CPB’s Ruhin Hossain Prince and SPB’s Bazlur Rashid Firoz requested the NCC to avoid a hasty move to reach consensus on this ‘highly’ debatable issue.

With no agreement reached on both the issues, NCC vice-chair Ali Riaz adjourned the session at 5:00pm.

The NCC would not hold any session on Monday and Tuesday, said Ali Riaz.​

 

[Saif]

National Consensus Commission focuses on weakening executive branch: Salahuddin Ahmed

BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said that there is more eating and drinking than discussion happening in the reform efforts led by the National Consensus Commission.

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National Consensus Commission focuses on weakening executive branch: Salahuddin Ahmed

Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 26 Jun 2025, 18: 27

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed addresses a meeting at the National Press Club on 26 June. Prothom Alo

BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said that there is more eating and drinking than discussion happening in the reform efforts led by the National Consensus Commission.

However, BNP believes that there will be a consensus in the end.

He made this remark today, Thursday, at an event held at the National Press Club auditorium, organised to mark the 13th founding anniversary of Nagarik Oikya.

Referring to the simultaneous movement by BNP as the foundation that planted the seed for the fall of the previous fascist government, Salahuddin Ahmed said, “We knew fascism would fall. But we did not know when, how, or by what method it would happen.”

Highlighting that BNP is cooperating with the government on reforms, he stated that the party agrees with the proposal that no individual should serve as Prime Minister of Bangladesh for more than ten years. This is where fascism has been resisted, he said.

Salahuddin added that the next step should be ensuring independence of judiciary, which he described as a shield for democracy.

Stressing the need to guarantee freedom of the press to protect democracy, Salahuddin Ahmed said that it has to be ensured that journalists serve their conscience, not their employers. As a political party, he affirmed, BNP will continue to support freedom of press in every possible way.

He expressed the view that a truly independent election commission could prevent the return of fascism.

However, he noted that weakening the executive branch alone is not enough to dismantle fascist structures.

He accused the National Consensus Commission of being overly focused on weakening the executive branch.

Just because one dictator emerged in the past doesn't mean the entire executive should be dismantled.

Salahuddin also added that BNP supports reforms, but not at the cost of weakening any particular branch of the state.​

 

[Saif]

BNP leader Salahuddin questions mandatory consensus on NCC proposals

BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Sunday questioned why reform dialogue is needed if all parties are asked to fully agree with every proposal put forward by the National Consensus Commission. “If we are asked to agree 100 per cent with all proposals of the Commission, then wh

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

BNP leader Salahuddin questions mandatory consensus on NCC proposals

UNB
Published :
Jun 29, 2025 22:29
Updated :
Jun 29, 2025 22:29

BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Sunday questioned why reform dialogue is needed if all parties are asked to fully agree with every proposal put forward by the National Consensus Commission.

“If we are asked to agree 100 per cent with all proposals of the Commission, then why were we invited for discussion?” he told reporters after the seventh day of the second phase of talks between the commission and political parties at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital.

The BNP leader said the July Charter or National Charter is supposed to be signed by bringing together all the issues on which the parties agree. “Now if we are forced here to agree on all the issues - that is not right,” he said replying to a question.

Noting that they never express disappointment, he said, “We express optimism. We are making this proposal -- all the issues that the parties and everyone will agree on will be signed as the July Charter.”

Focusing on BNP’s support to many reform proposals, Salahuddin said they agreed on the change in Article 70 of the constitution, the chairmanship of key parliamentary standing committees, conditionally agreed on the proposal of limiting a person’s tenure as prime minister to a maximum of 10 years during their lifetime (but in that case, the proposal to form any authority like National Constitutional Council or Appointment Committee for the constitutional and statutory institutions must be avoided).

He said BNP also agreed on the issue of electing the president through a secret ballot, allowing MPs to vote independently.

Salahuddin raised BNP’s previous position, objecting to the proposal to form an appointment committee for the constitutional and statutory bodies and introduction of Proportional Representation (PR) system (based on votes) in the proposed 100-seat Upper House.

He said BNP rather supports that the political parties should have representation in the Upper House based on the number of their respective MPs in the lower house in case of the bicameral parliament.

But most of the political parties, including Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, National Citizen Party-NCP, want the formation of the appointment committee and the PR system in the Upper House.​

 

[Saif]

Unity for durable democratic reform

The interim government's initiative to launch a comprehensive reform process through the National Consensus Commission (NCC) is a response to the growing public demand for structural change and democratic renewal. It is encouraging that political parties, through NCC-hosted discussions, are beginni

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Unity for durable democratic reform

Published :
Jul 05, 2025 22:19
Updated :
Jul 05, 2025 22:19

The interim government's initiative to launch a comprehensive reform process through the National Consensus Commission (NCC) is a response to the growing public demand for structural change and democratic renewal. It is encouraging that political parties, through NCC-hosted discussions, are beginning to rise above partisan divides and find common ground on key reforms vital for building durable democracy. A tangible result of this emerging consensus is the recent agreement among major political parties to curb the misuse of presidential clemency and decentralise the judiciary, two contentious constitutional issues that have long fuelled public distrust and centralised power. This development, revealed by NCC vice-chairman Professor Ali Riaz, follows discussions with representatives from 30 political parties and marks a collective step towards institutional accountability and judicial accessibility.

Under the current Article 49 of the constitution, the president holds unchecked authority to pardon, suspend or commute any court sentence. In practice, this authority has often been misued for political ends including the controversial pardoning of individuals convicted of serious crimes. The proposed amendment would retain the president's clemency power but make it subject to clear legal criteria and procedures. This change would bring Bangladesh in line with global norms that limit executive discretion and promote accountability. Similarly, decentralising the judiciary by establishing permanent High Court benches addresses a critical bottleneck in the legal system. The justice system is now struggling with a massive backlog of several million cases, causing trials to take an average of five to ten years. Compounding the issue, centralisation of higher judiciary functions in Dhaka places an undue burden on citizens living in remote districts. Amending Article 100 to establish permanent High Court benches in each division would ease this burden. It would improve access to justice and help close the longstanding gap between the judiciary and ordinary citizens.

The significance of these consensus-based steps must be understood within the context of broader reform agenda enabled by the mass uprising of July 2024. That uprising, and the sacrifices made during it, made clear that the people of Bangladesh no longer accept a political order where power is concentrated, unaccountable and shielded from public scrutiny. In conversations, public forums and national dialogues, a collective demand for democratic transformation emerged. The NCC is now engaging with political parties to channel these aspirations into concrete reforms. Alongside clemency and judicial structure, the NCC discussions have led to tentative agreements on other key issues including the caretaker government system, term limits for the Prime Minister and the creation of a second chamber in the legislature. However, disagreements persist on other matters including the structure of the upper house and appointments to constitutional bodies.

In a multiparty democracy, ideological and policy differences are natural. Democracy does not demand uniformity, but it does require that all actors move forward together. At the same time, it is essential to ensure the current negotiations do not unravel over divisive side issues. This July offers both a symbolic and practical opportunity to finalise what many hope will become the July Charter. Such a charter would not only honour the martyrs of the 2024 uprising but also reaffirm a shared commitment to a just and inclusive democratic state. The recent consensus on presidential clemency and judicial decentralisation proves that differences can be bridged through dialogue and compromise. Political parties must now resist the lure of short-term advantage and build on this progress by finalising concrete legislative proposals. Any delay, indecision or retreat would risk undermining this historic opportunity to secure a democratic future.​

 

[Saif]

Can upper house strike elusive balance of power?

The Constitution Reform Commission has proposed the formation of a bicameral legislature, where the upper house would serve as an “additional supervisory” layer. The aim is to reduce the absolute dominance and unilateral power of the ruling party in the lower house (parliament). This proposal...

en.prothomalo.com

Can upper house strike elusive balance of power?

Riadul Karim Dhaka
Published: 07 Jul 2025, 08: 48

Parliament building Prothom Alo

The Constitution Reform Commission has proposed the formation of a bicameral legislature, where the upper house would serve as an “additional supervisory” layer. The aim is to reduce the absolute dominance and unilateral power of the ruling party in the lower house (parliament).

This proposal has been discussed several times with political parties through the National Consensus Commission. Almost all parties have agreed on the formation of a bicameral parliament, but disagreements persist regarding the electoral system and jurisdiction of the upper house. Further discussions are expected on this issue.

Experts point out that simply forming an upper house will not ensure balance. Rather, its effectiveness will depend on how members are elected and what powers the upper house holds.

According to the proposal, the upper house would mainly have authority concerning constitutional amendments. Beyond that, its powers are largely symbolic. Still, the upper house’s authority to review bills, temporarily hold them, and offer recommendations could help better lawmaking. The actual impact will depend on the method of election. The proposed election system for the upper house has drawn objections from several parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

As per the commission’s proposal, elections for the lower house (parliament) would follow the existing seat-based system, while the upper house (Senate) would be elected through Proportional Representation (PR).

That means parties would gain seats in the upper house proportionate to the total national vote they receive in the general election for the lower house.

Experts argue that this system would prevent any single party from controlling the upper house. It would also promote balance and broader party representation because it is unlikely for any party to secure an outright majority in the upper house unless it wins more than 50 per cent of the national vote in the lower house elections.

In no credible election in Bangladesh’s history has any party achieved over 50 per cent of the national vote.

Furthermore, parties with no seats in the lower house could still gain representation in the upper house through their vote share.

Representation of various groups

The Electoral Reform Commission also proposed a bicameral system, recommending PR system for the upper house. However, it additionally suggested including representatives from various social and professional groups.

Under their plan, half of a party’s upper house seats would be filled by party members, and the other half by non-partisan representatives from civil society, academia, science, humanitarian service, labour, women’s rights activists, cultural figures, and marginalised communities. At least 30 per cent of these seats must go to women.

Powers of the Upper House

The proposal states that the upper house would not have the authority to introduce legislation. However, all bills except the finance ones passed by the lower house would need to be presented in both chambers.

The upper house couldn’t permanently block any bill. If it delays a bill for more than two months, it would be deemed approved. The upper house could review, approve, or reject bills within the stipulated time. If rejected, it could send the bill back to the lower house with recommended amendments.

The lower house could accept or reject these suggestions wholly or partially. If the upper house rejects the same bill passed in lower house in two successive sessions, the lower can send the bill, if passed for the third consecutive time, to the president without upper house approval.

Even though the upper house won’t have much say in general bills it will have an important role in constitutional amendment bills.

As per the proposal, approval from two-thirds of the combined membership of both chambers would be required for constitutional amendments.

Political parties’ positions

So far, there is general agreement that the upper house would have 100 seats. Most parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami and the NCP, support proportional representation for upper house elections.

Some parties, like Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolon Bangladesh, even favour proportional representation for the lower house.

However, some parties, including the BNP, oppose PR for the upper house. They propose allocating upper house seats based on the number of seats a party holds in the lower house.

They argue that a PR-based upper house would make it nearly impossible for any party to secure the two-thirds majority needed for constitutional amendments. Even making general legislation would be difficult.

Supporters of PR in the upper house argue that BNP’s model would simply replicate the lower house in the upper house. It will stymie the the purpose of balance of power as the ruling party will control the both house.

This issue was discussed during the consensus commission’s dialogue with political parties on 29 June.

On that day, Nagorik Oikya president Mahmudur Rahman said the upper house would just be a replica of the lower house if the seats are allocated the proportionate to the seats.

National Citizen Party member secretary Akhtar Hosen said it makes no sense if the seats of the upper house are allocated based on the lower house and if the upper house has no power, then it serves no purpose.

Why a bicameral system proposed?

The constitutional reform commission argued that Bangladesh’s unicameral system, in place since independence, has become increasingly ineffective in fulfilling its constitutional duties.

According to the commission, weak oversight of the executive, poor representation, and structural limitations have hindered parliamentary effectiveness.

It further said the dominance of the executive has limited meaningful parliamentary debate and scrutiny, while opposition boycotts have eroded accountability.

The report highlighted that weak review and rushed lawmaking without sufficient debate have also undermined the unicameral model. This has enabled repressive laws and power concentration, as seen in constitutional amendments like the Fourth Amendment (1975) and the Fifteenth Amendment (2011), which introduced a presidential system and abolished the caretaker government, respectively.

The commission said the current unicameral system failed to ensure broader representation, especially for minorities and marginalised groups. The commission there proposed a bicameral system to do away with structural and institutional weaknesses of the existing system.

Sources indicate that the requirement of a two-thirds majority in both chambers for constitutional amendments is meant to prevent partisan or personal interests from driving such changes. Without single-party control, any government would need to engage in dialogue and build national consensus for amendments.

Professor Nizam Uddin Ahmed, former professor of Chittagong University and parliament researcher, noted that aside from constitutional amendments, the proposed powers of the upper house are mostly symbolic. If upper house members are chosen based on lower house seats, the upper house would merely mirror the lower house.

PR elections are necessary for a meaningful upper house, he said.

He added that objections to PR lack strong justification and that the parties should decide how to nominate members to the upper house.​