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Published : 15 Mar 2026, 10:03 PM
Discussion on a parliamentary motion of thanks to the president’s speech has renewed political tensions over the July National Charter, the referendum verdict, and the constitutional reform council.
Government MPs welcomed the president’s address on Sunday, while opposition members from Jamaat and other parties raised questions on the implementation of the July Charter and the reform council.
They also criticised speeches delivered by the president during the ousted Awami League government.
On Sunday, Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam tabled the motion of thanks, supported by Whip Mia Nuruddin Ahmed, before debate began. Fourteen MPs participated on the first day, after which the session was adjourned until Mar 29.
The session opened on Mar 12.
Under Article 72, President Mohammed Shahabuddin convened parliament and delivered his speech that day.
Opposition protests and walkouts indicated tensions before the Sunday proceedings resumed.
BNP lawmaker Monirul Haque Chowdhury of Cumilla-6 recalled the president’s role during the post-July Uprising parliament and said, “The mass uprising led to a parliament reflecting national unity. The recent experience shows what happens when Jamaat becomes an adversary.”
He cautioned Jamaat against forgetting past political compromises.
Jamaat’s Masood Sayedee of Pirojpur-1 called the July Charter a “milestone” but criticised the BNP for failing to take the reform council oath despite referendum approval.
Other opposition MPs raised regional development issues: Salimuzzaman Salim of Gopalganj-1 urged treating Gopalganj like other districts; Anwarul Islam of Natore-3 stressed agricultural and fisheries industries in Chalanbil.
Government MPs highlighted local development: Md GK Gouse of Habiganj-3 pressed for road, rail, and medical college upgrades; Nurul Amin Mir of Chattogram-1 demanded infrastructure improvements and praised anti-illegal land measures.
Opposition and government members alike invoked the July Charter, past injustices, and ongoing reforms. Several MPs underscored the president’s critique of previous authoritarian rule, calling parts of the speech worthy of thanks.
Jamaat’s Abdul Muntakim of Nilphamari-4, identified as a July protester and prisoner, lauded the Charter’s vision of justice and equality, while government MPs stressed public welfare and regional development.
