An initiative is underway to make public approval through referendum mandatory for any future modifications to the caretaker government system, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said on Tuesday.
Salahuddin, who is also the president of the Special Committee on Constitutional Amendment of Parliament, told reporters that a condition requiring a referendum will be incorporated into the constitution regarding any alteration or amendment to the caretaker framework.
He also clarified that BNP is not rigid on the proposal to retain the president as the head of the caretaker government; rather, the party’s stance remains that the president will not hold this position.
Salahuddin made these remarks during a news briefing at Parliament following a meeting between the Special Committee on Constitutional Amendment and representatives of the families of those killed in the July mass uprising, as well as “July warriors.”
He explained that the specific procedure for forming the caretaker government will be determined through discussions and decisions in the next parliament.
However, to prevent any future government or parliament from easily abolishing or altering the system, discussions were held on introducing a constitutional obligation for a referendum.
Addressing the demands raised by the July warriors, Salahuddin said they have sought legal and constitutional recognition. Specifically, their demands include incorporating the July Declaration into the preamble of the constitution, alongside ensuring their indemnity and constitutional protection.
Salahuddin affirmed that the government is sincere regarding these matters, adding that proposals to include protection and indemnity for July fighters in a specific section of the constitutional schedule were also discussed.
Reiterating that the government is committed to the full implementation of the signed “July Charter,” Salahuddin noted that continuous consultations are being conducted with various stakeholders to verify whether any issue is being omitted during the implementation process.
He added that the government is equally sincere about swiftly advancing the trials concerning the July genocide.
In response to a query regarding constitutional amendments, Salahuddin added that significant changes will be introduced in certain fundamental areas, though the final constitutional amendment process will be completed in Parliament.
