Consensus reached over raising women seats in parliament to 100, amending Article 70 of Constitution: Salahuddin Ahmed
Last Updated on June 17, 2025 7:29 pm
Masum Billah | Dhaka | 17 June 2025
In a significant development toward parliamentary and constitutional reforms, Bangladesh’s major political parties have reached a consensus on two key issues: increasing the number of reserved seats for women in parliament from 50 to 100, and amending the controversial Article 70 of the Constitution.
BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed made the announcement during a press briefing on Monday, held just before the lunch break in the second phase of dialogue between the National Consensus Commission and various political parties.
“Everyone is in agreement regarding raising women’s reserved seats to 100. Discussions are still ongoing about the election method,” said Salahuddin. While there is alignment on the need to enhance women’s representation, differing views remain on how the seats will be filled—whether through the current nomination system or direct election.
Currently, women’s reserved seats are filled by indirect election through party nominations based on proportional representation. Earlier in April, the Women’s Affairs Reform Commission had proposed increasing the number of reserved seats to 300, all to be filled by direct vote—sparking national debate.
The parties also agreed to amend Article 70 of the Constitution, which currently restricts MPs from voting against their party line under threat of losing their parliamentary membership. Salahuddin stated that under the proposed amendment, lawmakers would be allowed to vote independently on all matters except confidence motions and money bills.
“This consensus marks a major shift in the parliamentary culture. It aims to restore lawmakers’ freedom while maintaining party discipline in critical areas,” said Salahuddin.
In addition to these constitutional issues, discussions also included judicial appointments. Salahuddin stressed the need to reform the president’s authority in appointing the chief justice, suggesting that the two most senior judges of the Appellate Division should be considered as a prerequisite. Although the proposed Supreme Judicial Appointment Ordinance is still under legal scrutiny, Salahuddin noted that no party has expressed opposition to it.
The opposition’s role in parliamentary committees was also a key point of agreement. “The chairpersons of four major standing committees—Public Accounts, Privileges, Estimates, and Undertakings—will be from the opposition party,” he said. Other important committees will also be chaired by opposition members based on proportional seat distribution, ensuring stronger oversight and balance in legislative functions.
Islami Andolon Bangladesh also welcomed the consensus. Its Senior Joint Secretary General, Gazi Ataur Rahman, confirmed that political parties had agreed on both the Article 70 amendment and opposition-led parliamentary committees.
Salahuddin acknowledged that although BNP has a formal written position, it is engaging in compromise. “We are flexible. Today’s consensus on Article 70 shows our willingness to accommodate other viewpoints while also voicing our reservations.”
He added that BNP’s election manifesto will include a proposal to introduce a “national security clause” for war or emergency situations, signaling broader constitutional reforms if the party comes to power.
This emerging consensus reflects a promising turn in Bangladesh’s political dialogue, with reforms aimed at ensuring more inclusive representation, independent legislative practice, and a stronger democratic framework.