Party chief should have opportunity to become premier: Salahuddin Ahmed

Salahuddin Ahmed, a member of BNP's Standing Committee, has said that party leaders should have the opportunity to become prime minister.

He made the remarks on Sunday, July 20, while speaking to reporters after a meeting with the National Consensus Commission.

“BNP has presented its argument in favour of allowing the party chief to hold the office of prime minister,” Salahuddin Ahmed said. “Just because someone is the head of a party doesn’t automatically make them Prime Minister, but we believe they should have the opportunity to hold that position. We hope consensus can be reached on this matter in the upcoming discussions.”

He also noted that the meeting discussed the possibility of amending the structure of the caretaker government in light of the 13th Amendment. “We have received a proposal from the Consensus Commission. BNP will review it and provide an official response,” he added.

Salahuddin further informed that a new round of discussions on the Commission’s draft proposal is scheduled for next Tuesday.

Following the meeting, Professor Ali Riaz, Vice-Chair of the Consensus Commission, stated that all political parties have agreed on the need for a non-partisan caretaker government during elections.

He said, “There is consensus among political parties on most of the key points presented. Based on their feedback and proposals, the Commission has prepared a new draft, which has been shared with the parties. We are hopeful that a comprehensive agreement will be reached in the next round of discussions.”

He also mentioned that, depending on the progress of the ongoing talks, the Commission is optimistic about announcing a "July Accord" later this month.