In Bangladesh, the Constitutional Reform Council faces uncertainty after BNP members declined to take oath as its members, though they were sworn in as MPs following the 13th national election. The council was created under the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order, which stipulates that elected MPs automatically serve as council members if the referendum result favors the proposal. With 60 members required for quorum, 77 Jamaat and NCP members have already taken dual oaths, while BNP’s refusal has disrupted the process.

BNP leaders argued that the council lacks constitutional basis and that its oath-taking procedure must first be incorporated into the constitution. In contrast, Jamaat and NCP leaders criticized BNP’s stance, accusing it of defying the referendum’s mandate. Legal experts noted that the July Order allows those who took oath to proceed with constitutional drafting, though such a move could heighten political instability.

A High Court petition has already challenged the referendum’s legality and sought to suspend its results, leaving the council’s future uncertain amid ongoing constitutional and political debate.