The National Consensus Commission (NCC) has proposed repealing Article 4(a) of the Constitution, which mandates the display of portraits of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in government and non-government institutions.
The commission is considering including this proposal in the July Charter 2025.
In a letter signed by commission Vice Chairman Professor Ali Riaz and sent to political parties on Thursday, the commission sought their opinions on the proposal within the shortest possible time.
According to the letter, the commission has concluded its series of meetings with political parties and alliances regarding the formulation and implementation of the July Charter 2025. At this stage, it is considering incorporating the proposal to repeal Article 4(a) into the charter.
The Article 4(a) states, “The portrait of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, must be preserved and displayed at the offices of the President, Prime Minister, Speaker, and Chief Justice; and in all government and semi-government offices, autonomous institutions, statutory authorities, government and private educational institutions, and at Bangladesh embassies and missions abroad.”
The commission has asked political parties to submit their written opinions by 4pm on Saturday, October 11 — either directly to the commission office or via email or WhatsApp. It has also invited parties to contact the commission through the same channels if they require any further information.
Confirming the matter to TIMES of Bangladesh, NCC Vice Chairman Ali Riaz said, “The Constitution Reform Commission had also proposed repealing Article 4(a), which mandates the display of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s portrait.
“Therefore, as we finalise the July Charter, we have sought the opinions of political parties on the matter.”
Islami Andolan Bangladesh Senior Joint Secretary General Gazi Ataur Rahman confirmed receipt of the letter.
He further said, “We have received the letter and have already prepared our response. We agree with the commission’s position. Displaying anyone’s portrait does not bring any benefit to the country or the nation.
“Not only Sheikh Mujibur Rahman – we oppose the mandatory display of anyone’s portrait.”
Meanwhile, Ganosamhati Andolan spokesperson Abul Hasan Rubel declined to make an immediate comment on the issue.
He however said the party received the letter on Thursday but has yet to reach a decision. “We will be able to comment only after internal discussions and a formal party decision,” Rubel added.
After returning to power in 2009, the Awami League introduced the 15th Amendment to the Constitution on 30 June 2011.
The amendment added Article 4(a) under the heading “Portrait of the Father of the Nation,” making it a constitutional obligation to preserve and display Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s portrait in designated places.
