Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni on Monday said there is no alternative to amending the Constitution to put Bangladesh’s democratic journey on the right track.
“The previous fascist government changed the Constitution for its own benefits. This Constitution must be made people-friendly again for the benefit of the people,” he said when US Embassy Political Officer James A Stewart called on him at his Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban office.
According to a press release, the Chief Whip said there is no opportunity to repeal the existing Constitution. “However, changes to the Constitution must be made based on discussions with all parties.”
“We have come to Parliament with a two-thirds majority. Although we are sufficient in number to amend the Constitution, we want to take the decision based on opinions of all. We want to walk the path with everyone. Bangladesh comes first for the current government,” he said
Moni also mentioned that BNP is in favour of implementing the July National Charter. “We want to implement everything we have agreed on. We just want to discuss the implementation method with everyone.”
During the meeting, discussions were held on the democratic journey of Bangladesh, the implementation of the July Charter, the method of amending the Constitution and the role of the government in implementing an effective Parliament.
The Chief Whip said since taking office, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has been sending the opposition a message of political harmony and creating a beautiful democratic environment.
“After the victory, he went to the Leader of the Opposition’s house and proposed that a deputy speaker be appointed from the opposition. He is also thinking about giving the posts of parliamentary standing committee chairman to the opposition on a proportional basis. He will do whatever is needed to make Parliament the centre of democracy.”
James A Stewart praised the current government's people-friendly initiatives such as waiving agricultural loans up to Tk 10,000, distributing family cards, and bringing political stability.