Tensions have emerged in the ongoing national dialogue as four left-leaning political parties threatened to boycott discussions over proposed changes to the fundamental constitutional principles.
The dispute arose during the 19th day of the second phase of talks between political parties and the National Consensus Commission, held Sunday at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital.
The Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB), Socialist Party of Bangladesh (BASAD), BASAD-Marxist, and Bangladesh JASAD strongly opposed any attempt to omit the existing constitutional principles of nationalism, socialism, democracy, and secularism.
While they supported the Commission’s proposed inclusion of equality, human dignity, social justice, democracy, and religious freedom and harmony, they insisted that these should be added alongside – not in place of – the original four principles.
Speaking at the meeting, CPB General Secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince said, “There can be no consensus on the question of state principles, as parties hold different ideologies. Only the people can decide on this matter.”
He added that while the Constitution, achieved through the Liberation War, contains some gaps, there can be no compromise on its core principles. “If any attempt is made to change the fundamental principles through wordplay, we will not be part of it. If this continues, our participation in future dialogue with the Commission will not be possible.”
Prince proposed that the Constitution could retain the original four principles while incorporating the Commission’s suggested additions to reflect broader aspirations.
Meanwhile, BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, National Citizen Party (NCP) and several other parties expressed full support for the Commission’s proposal.
BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said, “We have no objection to the Commission’s proposed state principles. In fact, these are our suggestions.”
Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher, nayeb-e-ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami, acknowledged internal party pressure, stating, “Our supporters question our silence, while the left speaks strongly. But if we speak forcefully, it becomes controversial. The left should also show restraint.”
NCP Member Secretary Akhter Hossen stated, “Our position is to reject the old principles entirely. We support the Commission’s proposal and do not wish to revisit past debates.”
Abul Hasan Rubel, executive coordinator of Ganosamhati Andolon, welcomed the proposal, saying it reflected “an inclusive and justice-based vision” in place of controversial terms like nationalism and socialism.
Today’s discussions also covered the proposed formation of an Independent Police Commission and the expansion of citizens’ fundamental rights, which reached consensus among participating political parties.
Representatives from 28 political parties and 2 alliances, including BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, participated in the meeting.
Members of the National Consensus Commission present included Safar Raj Hossain, Badiul Alam Majumdar, Emdadul Haque, Iftekharuzzaman, and Ayyub Miah.