Dhaka, Nov 26 (V7N) — The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has submitted a detailed proposal for constitutional amendments, including significant changes such as limiting the prime minister to two consecutive terms, introducing positions for a deputy prime minister and vice president, establishing an upper house in parliament, and enabling plebiscites.

The proposal was submitted on Tuesday morning by a BNP delegation led by Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed to the Ali Riaz-led Constitution Reform Commission at the Parliament House.

BNP's recommendations focus on ensuring a balance of power, as highlighted by Salahuddin Ahmed during a briefing after the meeting. Among the notable changes proposed are:

Limiting the tenure of the prime minister to two consecutive terms.

Creating posts for a deputy prime minister and a vice president.

Establishing a bicameral parliamentary system by adding an upper house.

Introducing provisions for public plebiscites on significant national issues.

Salahuddin further stated that the commission will refine the proposals and present its final recommendations to the government. The next elected government will then be responsible for enacting the reforms.

Ali Riaz, head of the Constitution Reform Commission, announced plans to conduct a nationwide survey next week. The survey aims to gather public opinions from diverse demographics, from rural areas to urban centres, and across all age groups.

The commission had earlier requested political parties to submit their suggestions for constitutional amendments in writing. It is also engaging with civil society and other stakeholders in its discussions.

BNP's proposals add momentum to the ongoing dialogue on constitutional reform, a process aimed at modernizing governance structures and ensuring greater democratic accountability in Bangladesh.

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