A preliminary review of the July National Charter reveals a consistent pattern in the dissenting views expressed by BNP and its allied parties. Among the 84 proposals outlined in the charter, some can be implemented through executive orders, while others necessitate constitutional amendments or new legislation. Throughout the deliberations at the National Consensus Commission, BNP consistently opposed suggestions that would diminish the authority of the prime minister or the ruling party in governing the country.
Approximately 30 proposals in the charter have accompanying notes of dissent, with BNP submitting more than a dozen, while Jamaat-e-Islami had one and the NCP none. Both BNP and Jamaat disagreed with certain proposals but did not formalize them as notes of dissent. Notably, Jamaat and NCP approached the reform discussions from the perspective of potential opposition parties in the future parliament, aiming to enhance governmental accountability mechanisms, aligning with public interests.
One of the key proposals was to implement a 10-year term limit for the prime minister and prohibit individuals from simultaneously holding the positions of party leader and PM. Initially, there was a suggestion to limit the prime minister’s tenure to two terms, which BNP opposed. Eventually, they agreed to a 10-year limit on the condition of dropping another crucial proposal, the National Constitutional Council (NCC). The final draft omitted the provision for MPs to hold multiple leadership roles, settling on barring MPs from serving as both PM and party chief simultaneously, a point to which BNP dissented.
The NCC was envisioned as an independent body, inclusive of representatives from various political entities, to oversee appointments to significant constitutional and regulatory bodies. BNP successfully lobbied for the removal of the NCC requirement in exchange for the 10-year PM term limit. While seemingly subtle, the distinction between a 10-year limit and a two-term limit could potentially allow a sitting PM to extend their tenure before reaching the limit.
BNP’s dissent primarily targets proposals that enhance governmental accountability, safeguard the autonomy of constitutional bodies, and prevent excessive centralization of power with the prime minister. Additionally, they oppose measures aimed at making constitutional amendments bipartisan, reflecting a preference for maintaining strict party control over parliamentary decisions.
The party’s resistance extends to proposals for an upper house of parliament based on proportional representation, which would necessitate a two-thirds majority in both houses for constitutional amendments. BNP’s suggestions aim to dilute this proposition, including advocating for an upper house composition mirroring the lower house to prevent opposition influence in constitutional matters.
BNP’s strategy at the consensus commission indicates a focus on securing a significant majority in the next election rather than fostering a more accountable governance system. The party’s actions suggest a prioritization of retaining power without adequate checks and balances, potentially undermining democratic principles in Bangladesh.
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