Executive authority must not be undermined: Salahuddin

BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed has warned that curtailing the authority of the executive branch could undermine the balance of power necessary for effective governance.

Speaking at the 20th day of the ongoing dialogue between political parties and the National Consensus Commission at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Monday, Salahuddin emphasized BNP’s commitment to constitutional reforms that prevent any return to autocracy or fascism.

“BNP has extended full cooperation in the constitutional amendment process to ensure no dictatorship ever returns,” he said. “However, weakening the executive branch risks upsetting the balance in state administration.”

Ahmed highlighted that several of BNP’s proposals had already been accepted. These include limiting the Prime Minister’s term to a maximum of 10 years, and forming an independent search committee—comprising representatives from the ruling party, opposition, and judiciary—for appointing the Election Commission.

He also noted a major breakthrough: BNP’s proposal that any constitutional amendment under a reintroduced caretaker government must go to a public referendum before presidential approval has been accepted. “This is a significant step toward political stability,” he said.

However, he raised concerns over the attempt to restrict executive power, warning that such moves may hinder governance.

“The executive must be accountable to both Parliament and the people. But if it is given responsibility without adequate authority, it cannot function effectively,” he cautioned. “Tying the hands of the executive in appointments to constitutional and statutory bodies could create long-term governance challenges.”

Salahuddin reaffirmed BNP’s constructive approach to the dialogue, while defending the party’s temporary walkout during the session. “Participating where there is agreement and withdrawing where there are fundamental differences—this too is part of democratic practice,” he said.

“Consensus does not mean coercion. Dissent and difference of opinion are part of the democratic process. Without BNP, the idea of national consensus remains incomplete,” he added.

He concluded by confirming BNP’s participation in the next phase of the talks and reiterated the party’s willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.