Only elected individuals are authorised to amend constitution: security expert

Major General (retd) ANM Muniruzzaman, a security expert and the president of Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS), today said the constitution must not be amended by any authority other than elected representatives.

"Personally, I believe the constitution must remain untouched by unelected individuals or bodies. Only those who have been elected through a democratic process have the legitimate authority to amend it," he said.

"If others attempt to bring major changes, it will create complications that will be difficult for the nation to overcome."

He made the remarks at a dialogue with the National Consensus Commission during its consultation with civil society members at the Krishibid Institute in Dhaka this morning.

Muniruzzaman warned against excessive reforms amid ongoing political uncertainty.

"We should only carry out reforms that are necessary and practical. Overstepping that boundary could worsen an already complex situation," he said.

"Above all, we must focus on a swift transition to democracy. One of the core aspirations behind the political upheaval of July and August was the restoration of democracy. The reforms we pursue must reflect that goal."

Stressing the need for realistic, sustainable reforms, he said, "We can't assume that every reform is possible right now. We must prioritise those that are feasible. And no reform will be sustainable unless it is backed by political consensus."

"Reforms made during the 1/11 period ultimately failed because they lacked such consensus," he added.

"History has shown us that bypassing political leaders and parties in the reform process leads nowhere. That lesson must not be forgotten."

He added, "For 16–17 years, people have not only endured hardship but have also had their voting rights taken away. It is imperative that these rights be restored as soon as possible."

"Our foremost objective must be to pave the way for democracy through sustainable reform--and to do so without delay," he said.