JP advocates for limiting the Prime Minister's power

On Thursday, the Jatiya Party (JP) presented a 19-point reform proposal, which includes the repeal of the 15th Amendment to the Constitution and the reinstatement of the caretaker government system to oversee general elections.

The JP also suggested limiting the Prime Minister to two terms, establishing a balance of power between the President and the Prime Minister, revising the presidential election process, and allowing lawmakers to vote independently of party directives. These proposals were put forward by JP Chairman GM Quader at a press conference held at the party’s office in Banani, Dhaka.

Quader stated, “We propose the repeal of the 15th Amendment to the Constitution and the reintroduction of the caretaker government system to manage elections.” Regarding the power balance between the President and Prime Minister, he added, “Our suggestion is to amend the Constitution so that the head of the ruling party and the Prime Minister are not the same person.” On the two-term limit for the Prime Minister, he said, “History shows that prolonged control of the highest office leads to the centralization of power and can foster dictatorial tendencies.”

Additionally, Quader called for the revision of Article 70 of the Constitution to allow lawmakers to vote against party lines. He also proposed that the President should be elected by a three-fourths majority in Parliament, rather than a simple majority.

Among the other proposals, the JP chairman included provisions for the impeachment of the President and the creation of two deputy speakers.