Dhaka, Sept. 16: The National Consensus Commission has proposed enacting a Constitutional Order (CO) to implement core provisions of the July Charter 2025 ahead of the next general elections, followed by a national referendum to validate it.
The proposal came on the third day of talks with political parties at the Foreign Service Academy, where the commission’s legal experts suggested that the interim government issue a Constitutional Order under Article 22 of the July Declaration.
According to the proposal:
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The CO would take immediate effect once enacted.
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A referendum, to be held on the same day as general elections, would decide whether the CO gains permanent validity.
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If approved, the CO would remain in force from the date of its enactment.
Article 22 of the July Charter, announced on August 3, 2025, reflects the people’s intent to pursue democratic reforms, fair elections, good governance, and constitutional safeguards to prevent authoritarian rule.
Political Parties Divided on Implementation Path
During earlier dialogue sessions, political parties suggested several options, including:
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BNP: All parties commit to the charter in manifestos; the winning party must implement reforms within two years.
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Jamaat-e-Islami: Called for a Provisional Constitutional Order effective August 5, 2024, overriding all existing laws.
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National Citizen Party & AB Party: Demanded a constituent assembly.
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Islami Andolan Bangladesh: Suggested a presidential proclamation.
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Ganosamhati Andolan: Proposed a Constitutional Reform Council with reforms within six months and full implementation within a year.
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Rastroshongskar Andolon: Called for elections to a Constitution Reform Convention alongside parliamentary polls.
Parties like AB Party, Khelafat Majlish, Zaker Party, and Gono Odhikar Parishad supported a referendum, while Samajtantrik Dal (Marxist) backed it only if a consensus emerged. The Communist Party of Bangladesh, Bangladesher Samajtantrik Dal, and Gonoforum insisted reforms be left to the next parliament.
The first day of dialogue on September 11 presented multiple legal options, including executive orders, ordinances, referendums, and constitutional orders, for implementing the July Charter reforms.
Political parties will continue discussions before any final decision on the referendum or constitutional order is taken.