NCP Demands Full Implementation of July Charter Before Next Election

The National Citizens Party (NCP) has demanded the full implementation of all reform proposals in the July National Charter before the upcoming parliamentary elections. According to the party, it is not just certain parts but the entirety of the charter that must be implemented at once, and ensuring this requires a general election.

On Friday, the NCP submitted its written opinion to the National Consensus Commission. The submission stated, “We do not accept the ambiguity over which proposals will be implemented immediately and which later. Every recommendation of the July Charter must be implemented now.”

The NCP’s position highlights that the draft does not clearly outline the process to incorporate all the charter’s decisions into the constitution. They argue that the charter, negotiated among political parties, cannot remain merely declaratory; constitutional amendments are necessary to guarantee its implementation.

Meanwhile, the BNP believes that while some reforms can be carried out through interim government ordinances, constitutional amendments should be left to the next parliament. Salahuddin Ahmed, a member of BNP’s Standing Committee, said prioritizing the July Charter over the constitution would set a bad precedent.

On the issue of implementing the July Charter before elections, Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolon are also pressing for immediate reforms. They have specifically stated that they will not accept the next national election without a proportional representation (PR) voting system.

According to sources at the National Consensus Commission, 23 parties, including the BNP, have submitted their opinions on the draft so far. However, Jamaat and Islami Andolon have not yet submitted their final opinions. In today’s meeting, the commission will review party positions and discuss possible additions or modifications, followed by consultations with experts.

NCP Joint Convener Javed Rasin said, “Fundamental reforms must be ensured before the next election; otherwise, we will not sign the July Charter.”