Tensions had been rising ever since newly elected MPs took their oaths almost a month ago. BNP lawmakers had refused to swear in as members of the constitution reform council, citing that such a council was not part of the constitution and that they were elected as parliament members. However, the opposition alliance, including Jamaat-e-Islami and its allies, took both oaths.
Since then, there has been an ongoing exchange of taunts and threats. The home minister’s comment questioning the nature of the implementation order, whether it was “masculine, feminine, or perhaps neuter,” was seen as dismissive of the July charter. In response, the opposition, eager to implement the charter, warned of street protests if the government rejected it.
The tension came to a head in parliament on Sunday, marking one month since the election results were officially announced and the deadline to convene the constitution reform council as per the order. The opposition leader, Jamaat leader Shafiqur Rahman, highlighted this deadline and expressed concerns about the council’s fate.
In response, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, representing BNP in negotiations, explained that the president had called a parliamentary session under Article 72 but did not have the authority to convene the reform council as it was not specified in the constitution. He emphasized the need to respect the people’s verdict through legal and constitutional means rather than emotions.
While acknowledging the importance of the council, Salahuddin pointed out the tight schedule of the current parliamentary session, focusing on reviewing 133 ordinances and upcoming budget discussions. He suggested discussing the matter at the business advisory committee to propose a constitutional amendment allowing the council’s formation.
The order mandates MPs to serve dual roles in the parliament and council, with specific guidelines for the council’s operation, including a 180-day deadline for reforms. However, there are no provisions for non-compliance. The debate also touched on the legal status of the order and its relation to constitutional ordinances.
BNP, holding a supermajority, has shown willingness to engage in reforms and offered positions to the opposition, yet expressing reservations about certain aspects of the order and referendum questions. The party aims to discuss and deliberate on reforms through parliamentary channels, involving all stakeholders in the decision-making process.
