Bangladesh’s interim government said Monday that political parties have broadly agreed on a reform charter but remain split over how to enforce it.
The country of 170 million has faced political upheaval since Sheikh Hasina was ousted as prime minister in a student-led revolt in August 2024. Interim leader Muhammad Yunus supports the 28-page “July Charter,” which proposes a two-term limit for prime ministers and greater presidential powers.
Ali Riaz, vice-chairman of the Consensus Commission that has held talks with nearly 30 parties, said negotiations concluded Sunday with agreement on 84 proposals. “The main point of contention now is the procedure for implementing them,” he said.
The dispute centers on the charter’s legal status. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) argues only parliament can approve it after elections due in February, while Jamaat-e-Islami and others want immediate ratification. Jamaat plans rallies in Dhaka on September 18 and nationwide on September 26 to demand swift endorsement.
Despite the impasse, Riaz said the draft was ready for signing. Yunus urged unity, warning: “The election will be successful only when we can reach agreement.”
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