No consensus on NCC, discussions to continue next week: Nahid

No consensus has been reached on the National Constitutional Council (NCC), with discussions slated to resume next week, National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam said today (18 June).

“Also, talks regarding the president’s election and powers remain unresolved,” Nahid said in a press briefing after attending the ongoing second phase of dialogue between the National Consensus Commission and political parties at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka.

The NCP convenor lamented the lack of consensus [among the political parties], reminding attendees that opposition parties, during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, had pledged to restructure these institutions.

He acknowledged differences among parties on the formation process of the council, saying, “Many parties have differing views on its structure. We also have some alternative proposals in this regard. However, in principle, a significant number of parties have taken a stand in favour of the NCC.”

Expressing hope for collective progress, Nahid said, “I believe all parties will come to a consensus in the national interest, rising above party lines and showing respect for the aspirations of a democratic state.”

Describing the formation of the NCC as a step towards balancing power, Nahid said, “Our journey towards a new Bangladesh aims to reduce the overwhelming power of the executive branch. That is why we support the formation of the NCC.”

When asked about engaging BNP separately on the NCC outside the commission, Nahid emphasised that he believes the matter falls under the Consensus Commission’s responsibility. 

He reiterated support for the constituent assembly, adding that no decisions have been finalised on how reforms will be implemented.