Reform proposals: Major parties taking time to react

Two leftist political parties have voiced strong criticism of the proposed changes to the fundamental principles in the preamble to the constitution.

 

Some of the proposals, however, have been received positively by these parties.

Meanwhile, the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, Jatiya Nagorik Committee, and Ganosamhati Andolan have refrained from commenting on the proposals, saying that they would first deliberate on the recommendations within their respective party forums before making any public statements.

Ruhin Hossain Prince, general secretary of the Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB), said anyone could present their recommendations for amending the constitution. "But the question is, who will be eligible to amend the constitution? Only an elected government can amend it. With deep anger and grief, we have seen that the Constitution Reform Commission has proposed some recommendations that are not acceptable," he said.

Additionally, he said, removing the three fundamental principles -- nationalism, socialism, and secularism -- achieved through the Liberation War, would be an offence.

"During the drafting of the constitution in 1972, our party informed the committee about some inconsistencies, which were retained while amending the constitution at different times. We will engage in discussions on these matters, but only if the fundamental principles remain untouched," he said.

Regarding the other proposals, he said the CPB believes the government is wasting time on such matters.

"The primary responsibility of this government is to prepare for the national election and transfer power to an elected government. People are not interested in discussing these proposals right now. Instead, they are demanding security for their lives and property, as well as control over the prices of daily essentials. These are the issues that need to be addressed at this moment," Ruhin added.

Saiful Huq, general secretary of the Biplobi Workers Party, said they supported some proposals that align with their 31-point agenda.

However, his party disagrees with the proposal to remove the three fundamental principles, and it believes secularism should be retained.

Regarding the proposed change to Bangladesh's official name, he said further discussion is needed.

Saiful also said his party views positively the Constitution Reform Commission's proposal to expand fundamental rights and liberties, emphasising that no civilised country should enact laws that curtail citizens' rights.

The politician expressed concerns about the proposal to lower the minimum age for becoming an MP from 25 to 21, describing it as "suicidal".

He said many believe this provision is intended to give benefits to students involved in the Anti-discrimination Student Movement and youths currently forming political parties.

His party believes 21-year-olds may lack the knowledge and experience necessary for such responsibilities, as many would still be completing their education at that age.

Saiful, however, welcomed the proposal for the National Constitutional Council and called for a clear definition of the interim government's powers as proposed by the commission.

His party also advocated for a provision in the constitution to ensure the interim government is held accountable during its tenure and after transferring power to the elected government.

Saiful criticised the recommendation to exclude Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's March 7, 1971 speech, his declaration of independence, and the proclamation of independence, which were included in the 5th, 6th, and 7th schedules, respectively.

He said these must remain parts of the constitution.

Zonayed Saki, chief coordinator of Ganosamhati Andolan, said the government would discuss the recommendations with political parties to reach a consensus.

"After thoroughly analysing the proposals, we will provide our opinions to the government," he said, declining to comment further.

When contacted, three standing committee members of the BNP declined to comment before discussing the proposals within their party forum.

"We will clarify our position on the proposals of the Constitution Reform Commission after holding discussions in our party forum," Iqbal Hasan Mahmood Tuku, one of the three, told The Daily Star yesterday.

Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar also told this newspaper they would not comment on the proposals before discussing these within their party forum.

He said the Jamaat had requested the government to hold discussions on the proposals with political parties and stakeholders, and they would provide their opinions during the talks.

Nasiruddin Patwary, convener of the Jatiya Nagarik Committee, said that his organisation would refrain from commenting until the full proposals of the commission were released.

"We will provide our formal opinions through a press release once the commission submits its complete report," he told the newspaper.