Fierce Debate in Parliament Over Constitutional Reform Council Ends Without Decision

PNN News Desk, Dhaka
A heated debate unfolded in the National Parliament regarding convening a session of the Constitutional Reform Council. Despite intense discussions between the ruling and opposition parties, no decision was reached.

On Tuesday, extended deliberations took place on a postponed proposal related to this issue. Eleven members of parliament, including the ruling and opposition parties, participated. After nearly two hours of debate, the Speaker concluded the discussion, but no final decision was made.

The ruling party argued that the July National Ordinance Implementation Order is not a valid law and was issued outside the constitutional framework. According to them, the President has no authority to issue such orders, preventing the formation of the Constitutional Reform Council. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed described the order as a controversial document rather than a law or ordinance.

However, the government acknowledged the need for constitutional reforms and proposed an alternative: forming an all-party parliamentary committee including all parties and independent MPs to bring amendments based on discussion and consensus.

On the other hand, the opposition claimed that the July popular uprising and subsequent referendum granted the President the legitimacy to issue such an order. They argued that ignoring the referendum would undermine the public’s will.

Opposition leader Shafiqul Rahman said respecting the public’s mandate would enhance the Parliament’s dignity. He emphasized that the opposition is willing to consider the special committee if it ensures equal representation from all parties, warning that majority-only committees may not yield desired outcomes.

Due to delays in swearing-in of members under the July National Ordinance, the Constitutional Reform Council could not be fully operational, leaving its status uncertain.