The National Consensus Commission resumed talks with political parties on Wednesday to resolve seven pending issues related to constitutional reforms, including the method of electing the president, state principles, and women’s representation in parliament.
The 22nd meeting in the commission’s second phase began around 3pm at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka. At the outset, the commission displayed seven agenda items, which include:
Women’s representation in parliament
Appointment processes for the Public Service Commission, Anti-Corruption Commission, Comptroller and Auditor General, and Ombudsman
Powers and responsibilities of the president under Article 48(3)
Method of electing the president and formation of an electoral college
Proposal to form an upper house, including its structure and authority
Expansion of citizens’ fundamental rights
Clarification of the state principles
Speaking ahead of the meeting, Vice-Chair of the Commission Ali Riaz said the panel was working to reach agreements swiftly and expected to announce some decisions by Thursday.
He confirmed that notable progress had been made regarding women’s parliamentary representation and that a written draft on the matter would soon be shared with political parties. A proposal to expand fundamental rights has also been circulated.
“All parties have agreed in principle to expand fundamental rights,” said Riaz. “However, there are differing opinions on what constitutional amendments this may involve.”
He noted that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) had submitted clear recommendations and objections, which are significantly contributing to the discussions.
The commission expects to deliver a list of agreed points to all parties by the end of Wednesday and aims to present a unified draft charter by Thursday.
Riaz urged continued support from the political parties, saying, “Your cooperation has brought us this far, and we hope it will carry us forward.”
While discussions on the powers and duties of the president are still ongoing, the commission expressed hope for quick resolutions on the remaining issues.
