Dhaka: National Consensus Commission Vice-chairman Professor Ali Riaz has announced that all political parties have agreed on the constitutional provision regarding the caretaker government and will pursue a referendum if any future amendments are deemed necessary. This decision was made after today’s discussions at the Doel Hall of the Foreign Service Academy in the capital, marking the 14th day of the second phase of daylong talks.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Professor Ali Riaz emphasized that any future amendment to the caretaker government provision will require a referendum post-incorporation into the existing constitution by the caretaker government. The consensus among political parties on the reintroduction of the caretaker government led to the proposal of a referendum for any future changes.
Professor Riaz expressed optimism that a consensus would be reached by next week regarding the appointment of the caretaker government’s head. During the discussions, certain decisions were made about constitutional amendments. If a bicameral parliament is not formed, amendments will require majority approval in parliament. However, a referendum will be mandatory for specific articles related to the caretaker government system.
The majority of parties support establishing a bicameral parliament, as expressed during the first phase of discussions. However, consensus on forming the bicameral parliament has not been reached. Some parties suggest the upper house be formed based on proportional representation, while others propose it be based on seat numbers.
Due to the lack of consensus, the Commission has been tasked with making a decision on the bicameral parliament. Professor Riaz expects the National Consensus Commission to reach a decision by next week through consultations and informal discussions with political parties.
Representatives from 30 political parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and other major and minor parties, participated in the talks. Commission members and special assistants to the Chief Adviser were also present.