Jatiya Sangsad Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam has indicated that the parliament may convene for extra sittings, including on Fridays, to ensure all ordinances are passed within the 30-day constitutional limit.
During a briefing held at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban tunnel on Thursday, he explained that Article 93 of the Constitution necessitates this specific timeline and noted that 44 ordinances have already been processed.
To accelerate the legislative process, the chief whip explained that various ordinances are currently being consolidated into bills. If the schedule demands it, sessions may be held on Fridays during both the morning and afternoon to ensure the ordinances are passed before the deadline.
Regarding the allocation of reserved seats for women, the BNP-led alliance is anticipated to receive 36 seats, which will be shared among its partners.
Candidates will be selected based on their constitutional eligibility, their capacity for effective parliamentary participation, and their proven dedication during 17 years of political struggle.
Islam highlighted that while the party chief will make the final selections, the primary goal is to ensure broad representation from across all segments of society.
Addressing internal corruption concerns, the chief whip revealed that serious complaints have been received regarding the parliament’s sound system, specifically citing the awarding of work to an unskilled contractor and the supply of equipment that failed to meet technical specifications.
He stated that punitive measures will be taken against those found responsible once the current session concludes to avoid interrupting house business.
On the matter of the Anti-Terrorism Act, Islam underscored a political philosophy that rejects revenge-based politics.
Citing Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who remarked, “We will win the hearts of people through love,” Nurul noted that the prime minister views himself as a leader for every citizen, regardless of their voting record.
He pledged that justice will be upheld via the rule of law, ensuring the guilty are penalised under existing statutes while the innocent are protected from political harassment.
Finally, the chief whip remarked that many incoming parliamentarians bring a wealth of experience from years of political struggle, imprisonment, and repression, and are now dedicated to nation-building and the democratic framework.
