BNP ready to sign July Charter: Salahuddin Ahmed

BNP is ready to sign the July Charter at any time, said Salahuddin Ahmed, a member of the party’s Standing Committee.

He made the remarks while speaking to journalists on Monday (August 4) at his residence in Gulshan, Dhaka.

Salahuddin said that BNP responded to the July Charter on the 30th of the month with some amendments after receiving the document. He also noted that the BNP has extended its full cooperation in implementing the Charter.

Regarding the July Declaration, the senior BNP leader said it holds both historical and political significance. He stated that BNP had already responded to the proposal in February. The party disagreed with the proposal to highlight March 26 and expressed its reservations. He further added that state and constitutional recognition would be granted through the Fourth Schedule. If the amendments proposed by BNP are not accepted, the party will respond officially after the Charter is read out.

He addressed criticisms about BNP’s role in the Charter process, stating, “Many are questioning whether BNP is cooperating or not—some claim we won’t sign unless we receive certain guarantees. But BNP has extended the highest level of cooperation.” Salahuddin also called upon all parties to uphold unity against fascism.

Salahuddin Ahmed added that the National Consensus Commission discussed 19 core reform issues. BNP issued notes of dissent on 7 of them and agreed on the remaining 12.

He further mentioned that BNP has not yet received an official invitation to the July Declaration event scheduled at Manik Mia Avenue.