Bangladesh’s Attorney General urges constitutional revisions, removal of secularism, and cancellation of 15th amendment.
In a landmark move, Bangladesh’s Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman has urged significant revisions to the country’s Constitution, particularly advocating for the removal of the term “secular” from the document.
Asaduzzaman presented his views during a court hearing on the legality of the 15th Amendment, raising concerns about the influence of the amendment on democracy and the country’s secular identity.
Secularism in the Constitution Under Fire
One of the primary issues raised by Asaduzzaman was the inclusion of the word “secular” in the Constitution, given that approximately 90% of Bangladesh’s population is Muslim.
He argued that the removal of this term would better reflect the beliefs and practices of the majority of the population.
Referring to the constitutional articles on equal rights and Bengali nationalism, Asaduzzaman described them as contradictory and believed that changes were necessary to ensure a more democratic framework for the country.
Concerns Over Undemocratic Amendments
Asaduzzaman also criticized certain provisions of the Constitution, particularly Articles 7A and 7B, which prevent changes that could “subvert democracy.”
He claimed that these articles concentrate political power and undermine the democratic process by limiting reforms.
He pointed out that these restrictions fostered a system akin to authoritarianism, which he believed contradicts the essence of democracy and rule of law.
Opposition to the Removal of the Caretaker Government System
Another significant aspect of Asaduzzaman’s argument was his opposition to the removal of the caretaker government system, which had been in place to oversee elections and ensure fairness.
The Attorney General stated that eliminating this system has undermined citizens’ fundamental rights and eroded public trust in the electoral process.
He viewed this move as a weakening of the democratic foundation of Bangladesh.
A Call for Constitutional Reforms
In conclusion, Asaduzzaman called for the cancellation of the 15th Amendment, arguing that it undermines the spirit of the Liberation War and disrupts the legacy of Bangladesh’s independence.
He criticized certain amendments, such as declaring Sheikh Mujibur Rahman the “Father of the Nation,” which he believed deepened divisions in the country and curtailed freedom of speech.
The Attorney General emphasized the need for constitutional reforms that would align with the values of democracy, national unity, and the country’s history of liberation.
