CEC violated Constitution, interim govt engaged in conspiracies: Salahuddin

Bangladesh’s Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday accused the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of violating the Constitution and breaching his oath of office.

He alleged that the CEC acted beyond his authority by distributing oath-taking forms for members of a so-called Constitution Reform Council.

The minister also criticised the broader process surrounding the “July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order,” describing it as part of what he called the interim government’s ongoing “conspiracies.”

His remarks came in response to an opposition-backed proposal in Parliament seeking to convene the first session of the Constitution Reform Council.

Questioning the legal basis of the move, Salahuddin argued that the order contradicts several constitutional provisions.

He noted that although the CEC took oath under constitutional provisions, there is no clause permitting him to facilitate oath-taking for members of a body that, according to him, does not legally exist.

To address constitutional reform, he proposed the formation of a special parliamentary committee that would include representatives from all political parties.

Opposition Leader and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman supported the idea but suggested equal representation between the ruling party and the opposition.

However, Law Minister Asaduzzaman rejected the proposal, calling it impractical and inconsistent with parliamentary norms, particularly given the ruling party’s majority.

Despite disagreements, he formally urged the Speaker to establish a parliamentary body to deliberate on constitutional reforms, including discussions on the July National Charter and dissenting views.

Salahuddin further questioned the legality of the implementation order issued by President Mohammed Shahabuddin, arguing that the Constitution allows the President to promulgate ordinances, not issue such orders. He claimed this authority has not existed since 1973.

He also raised concerns over the referendum process, alleging that one of the four questions presented to voters did not align with the agreed charter, yet people were compelled to approve it.

Addressing public perception, Salahuddin dismissed claims that BNP opposes the July National Charter, insisting that the party has consistently supported the initiative aimed at preventing authoritarian rule.