Dhaka, Jan 20 (V7N) — BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has emphasised that the implementation of recommendations from the reform commissions depends on political consensus among all parties. Speaking to Ekattor, he discussed the four reform commission reports recently submitted to the interim government.

The interim government, formed after the July coup, established several commissions to reform key national institutions, including the judiciary, election process, and constitutional framework. While many commissions missed their deadlines, four managed to submit their reports to the chief advisor on Wednesday. These recommendations include changes to the constitutional identity, electoral system reforms, and limiting the Prime Minister's term to two terms.

Amir Khasru stressed the importance of consulting political parties before implementing any reforms. Criticising the proposal to hold local government elections before the national elections, he said such a move could raise doubts about the government's intentions and legitimacy. He pointed out that organising local elections is beyond the scope of the interim government's mandate.

While the BNP supports certain recommendations, such as limiting the Prime Minister's term, it opposes holding local government elections ahead of the national polls. "The interim government must focus on facilitating free and fair national elections, not engaging in activities that may cause suspicion," he added.

Responding to speculation about former members of the Awami League joining the BNP, Amir Khasru clarified that the party is not currently accepting new members.

The reports submitted by the reform commissions are seen as a crucial step towards institutional reforms in Bangladesh. However, their success will largely depend on political parties finding common ground, a challenge in the country’s current polarised environment.

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