Panel invites BNP on caretaker alternative

The co-chairman of the special parliamentary committee has urged the opposition to help them find an acceptable alternative to the caretaker government system.

'Since the Supreme Court has rejected the provision of the caretaker government through repealing the 13th amendment, the nation can now think of an alternative model,' Suranjit Sengupta said on Friday.

Speaking to reporters at his residence in the city, the Awami League advisory council member said: 'Parliament can decide on the issue if the BNP joins and assists.

'But if they don't, parliament will settle the issue as it did in the case of previous 14 amendments.'

The BNP neither joined the talks with the panel nor  give the name of a member to sit on the committee formed on July 21 last year with 15 members to change the constitution.

It is instead warning the government that they would not accept an unilateral amendment.

Suranjit also said they could not prepare recommendations as copies of the full verdicts on seventh and 13th amendments had not reached them.

The Supreme Court on May 10 rescinded the 13th Amendment, repealing the caretaker government provision. But it said the next two general elections could be held under unelected rulers. It also said parliament might bring necessary amendments.

Suranjit was 'frustrated' with the BNP for not joining his panel for a special session. 'The opposition has been ceaselessly uncooperative over the constitution amendment. They could have spoken in parliament.'

A report comprising the recommendations of the committee will be placed in the session, beginning on Sunday, he added.

Suranjit said a bill with provisions to further empower the standing committees and making it mandatory for public servants to appear before them upon summons would be tabled in the upcoming session.

Quoting the law minister, Shafique Ahmed, he said the draft bill was prepared after holding meetings with the heads of all parliamentary watchdogs.

A provision of the bill states that punitive measures could be taken against any government official for ignoring summons.

Source: New Age

No comments:

Post a Comment