BNP has proposed that future appointments to the position of Chief Justice be limited to the three most senior judges of the Appellate Division, in an effort to prevent controversial individuals from assuming the role. The proposal was shared during a break in discussions with the National Consensus Commission on Tuesday (April 22) at the LD Hall of the National Parliament. Salahuddin Ahmed, a standing committee member of the BNP, stated that such reform must be carried out lawfully and constitutionally.

Earlier in the session, he emphasized that reforms should not be rushed, while Commission Vice Chair Dr. Ali Riaz indicated that discussions with political parties would continue into a second phase in mid-May, following consultations with relevant commissions. This marked the third round of dialogue between BNP and the Commission, with a four-member BNP delegation participating, led by Salahuddin Ahmed.

The meeting also covered judicial reforms, including a proposal for mandatory appointments from the top three judges and recommendations on presidential impeachment, suggesting a two-thirds consensus from both houses of parliament. BNP also proposed a new clause to Article 48(3) of the Constitution to define extended presidential powers, subject to parliamentary debate.

On the question of whether the same person can serve as head of government, party, and parliament, BNP opposed a fixed restriction, calling for flexibility, as such practice is common in other systems. The party also suggested repealing the Fifteenth Amendment and restoring the Constitution to its earlier form, aligning with the original declaration of independence focused on equality, dignity, and justice.

BNP supported proposals affirming citizens’ fundamental right to internet access and called for safeguards against arbitrary shutdowns. Regarding term limits, the party disagreed with the proposal to bar any individual from serving more than two consecutive terms as Prime Minister, suggesting instead that a break between terms should allow a former PM to return.

BNP had previously submitted reform proposals on March 23 and held two earlier rounds of dialogue with the Commission on April 17 and 20.