Dhaka, Apr 20 (V7N)- The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has expressed support for several reform proposals while placing a few key objections during its ongoing discussions with the National Consensus Commission (NCC). The party's standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed briefed reporters during a break in the meeting held at the LD Hall of the Parliament House on Sunday.

Among the major recommendations, BNP emphasized the need for greater freedom of expression for Members of Parliament, proposing that MPs be allowed to express opinions on all matters except those related to the finance bill, confidence bill, national security, and the constitution.

BNP also supported the idea of empowering the President, while advocating for the existing powers of the Prime Minister to remain intact. However, the party opposed the proposal to bar party chiefs from becoming the Prime Minister, arguing that such decisions should be left to individual political parties.

Regarding the formation of a bicameral parliament, BNP agreed with a 100-member Upper House, noting that discussions on the election method for its members could be held after the bicameral system is officially established.

The party strongly opposed expanding the powers of the National Constitutional Council (NCC), asserting that such a move could undermine the effectiveness of both the President and the Prime Minister.

On the caretaker government system, BNP reaffirmed its stance in favor of retaining the provision, suggesting that the caretaker government's term be limited to 90 days. Furthermore, Salahuddin Ahmed proposed a restriction on the Prime Minister's tenure, recommending that no individual should serve more than two consecutive terms.

The meeting marks a continued dialogue between the BNP and the reform commission aimed at reshaping Bangladesh’s constitutional and political framework through consensus.

END/MSS/AJ