BNP wants referendum on 2 more articles along with caretaker government

BNP had proposed including a provision for a referendum in the case of amending two more articles of the Constitution, alongside the provision for a caretaker government system. The proposal was made to bring the relevant articles under a referendum so that no future parliament can amend these provisions, said Chairman of the Special Committee on Constitutional Amendment and Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed.

He made these remarks while speaking to journalists after the third meeting of the Special Committee on Constitutional Amendment at the National Parliament on Sunday, September 27. Editors of national dailies, representatives of various journalist forums and distinguished journalists participated in the meeting. Their opinions and proposals on various aspects of constitutional amendment were sought. The committee chairman said many of the participants said they would provide their opinions in writing.

Salahuddin Ahmed said journalists gave their opinions on various articles and schedules, starting from the preamble of the Constitution, at the exchange meeting. They were also asked to provide written proposals. These opinions will be discussed in the special committee and included in the final report.

Regarding the participation of opposition parties, he said the committee has repeatedly called upon BNP and other opposition parties. Whenever they join the committee, they will be welcomed. He also said their statements will be considered in the discussions and acceptable matters will be taken based on everyone's opinions.

The Home Minister said there should be unity among them, not division. The July National Charter will be implemented in the manner it was signed. Beyond that, efforts will be made to accept issues that have not come up in discussions or have been left out, based on consensus.

In response to a question on which would be given priority between the July National Charter and BNP's election manifesto, Salahuddin Ahmed said the priority is the July National Charter. However, issues for which a mandate was received as mentioned in the election manifesto will also be incorporated into the amendment process.

Regarding the referendum, he said there is a constitutional obligation for a referendum in the case of amending certain articles of the Constitution. BNP had proposed bringing two more articles, along with the provision for a caretaker government system, under a referendum. The purpose is that if any future parliament wants to change these provisions, it must seek the people's approval.

He said since there is consensus on the caretaker government system, it will be kept in the Constitution. It was agreed to add two more articles to the proposal to include a provision for going to a referendum if any future parliament wants to change this system through amendment. He said this proposal was made by BNP.

Salahuddin Ahmed further said that after the Constitution Amendment Bill is passed in parliament, a referendum will be held on the articles that require it before the President's signature.

Regarding the timeline for preparing the special committee's report, he said they are making strong efforts to present the report in the National Parliament by December. Based on the report, a bill will be brought by the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs. He expressed hope that the bill will come to parliament in the January session, the first session of the year.