`Constitutional reform must proceed without opposition`

Academics and constitutional experts have urged a series of changes to Bangladesh’s Constitution, including clearer judicial powers, an acceptable mechanism for forming caretaker governments, a parliamentary upper house and broader fundamental rights.

The proposals were presented at the seventh meeting of the 13th Parliament’s special committee on constitutional amendments at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Tuesday. Briefing reporters afterwards, committee chairman and Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed described the discussions as substantive, noting that participants had addressed issues beyond those explicitly covered by the July National Charter. Furthermore, the experts called for a clearer definition of popular sovereignty, a review of provisions on the Constitution’s basic structure, and a balance between flexibility and stability in the amendment process.

The deliberations also centred on possible models for a bicameral legislature, including representation based on regions, professional groups or parties’ vote shares. Moreover, the experts examined options for forming caretaker governments, with the president’s role to be regarded as a last resort, and considered whether alternative amendment procedures, including a referendum, should be introduced. Nevertheless, no proposal has been adopted as a final decision, and further deliberations are expected.

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Mr Salahuddin said opposition parties had repeatedly been invited to submit written opinions and nominate representatives to the committee, adding that the government remained open to their participation. However, he stressed that the reform process would proceed in line with the July National Charter. The committee will reconvene on 24 October, when senior Supreme Court lawyers, representatives of the Supreme Court Bar Association and constitutional specialists are expected to discuss the legal and technical aspects in greater detail.