AB Party Chairman Majibur Rahman Manju, speaking at the National Consensus Commission (NCC) dialogue, emphasized that meaningful reforms are essential to honor the spirit of the recent popular uprising. He stated that under the guise of the executive branch, appointments to key constitutional positions have long been made solely based on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s personal preferences.

Manju pointed to instances where even Supreme Court judges have publicly declared themselves "pledged politicians," and blamed partisan and incompetent appointments for systemic failures—such as the unprecedented leakage of Public Service Commission exam papers. He stressed that to ensure democratic accountability and prevent the recurrence of fascist tendencies, the AB Party supports the formation of the NCC and endorses the electoral college system for electing the President.

BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed voiced opposition to the proposed National Constitutional Commission (NCC), citing concerns over inadequate accountability.

He argued that the responsibilities intended for the NCC are traditionally carried out by the executive, legislature, or through constitutional provisions. “Creating a new body for these tasks may disrupt institutional balance,” he said.

On the matter of presidential elections, he emphasized that members of parliament, along with an upper house if formed, should elect the President, rather than introducing a new electoral mechanism involving approximately 70,000 votes from the grassroots level.

Professor Mamun Mahmud, Convener of Narayanganj BNP, urged party members to remain vigilant against infiltration by opportunists. “Many associates of the ruling party are now trying to join BNP after August 5, some offering as much as one lakh taka,” he said.

“I warn our leaders and activists—don’t sell your decades-long political career for the lure of money,” he added, stressing that fascist elements must not be allowed into the party.

In a rare display of political civility, BNP’s Salahuddin Ahmed, NCP’s Nahid Islam, and Jamaat-e-Islami’s Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher held hands and shared a symbolic message of solidarity. The gesture took place during a break in the National Consensus Commission’s ongoing discussions on reforms related to the women’s reserved seats, bicameral parliamentary system, and the process for appointing the Chief Justice.

Following the moment, Salahuddin warmly embraced Nahid Islam in a show of goodwill.

Nahid Islam, Convener of the Nationalist Consensus Party (NCP), expressed full support for the formation of a National Constitutional Council (NCC). He stated that over the years, key constitutional bodies such as the Election Commission, Public Service Commission, Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), and the Human Rights Commission have been politicized.

“Partisan control has undermined their credibility, particularly damaging the electoral process,” said Nahid. “We want these institutions to function independently, free from government interference, and reflect the aspirations of the people.”

Dr. Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher, a senior Jamaat-e-Islami leader, has criticized the Chief Advisor for compromising neutrality by issuing a joint statement with BNP leader Tarique Rahman during a meeting in London. “Such a meeting between a state head and a political leader abroad is unprecedented,” said Taher. He revealed that Jamaat did not participate in Tuesday’s meeting for this reason, though they joined Wednesday’s session at the commission’s request. Taher also expressed support for a constitutional council but insisted it should not involve the president or chief justice. He further questioned the government's capacity over the DSCC lock controversy.

Today's session of the National Consensus Commission’s dialogue descended into chaos as leaders from the CPB, Gano Forum, and LDP stormed out in protest, accusing organizers of not allowing them to speak. The situation was later defused with the intervention of commission members, leading the parties to rejoin the dialogue. CPB General Secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince alleged bias, noting that Jamaat-e-Islami was allowed three speakers while others were denied a chance to speak.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi stated that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s attempts to break the BNP have failed time and again due to the uncompromising leadership of Begum Khaleda Zia.

Rizvi made the remarks after placing wreaths at the grave of late President Ziaur Rahman along with newly elected leaders of Narsingdi District BNP. He emphasized that the interim government must quickly fulfill its promises regarding the upcoming election.

Rizvi also demanded accountability for law enforcement officers accused of filing false cases and torturing opposition activists. “If anyone believes the interim government is becoming biased, the issue should be addressed through dialogue,” he said.

He concluded by urging the government to form a national task force to combat dengue and COVID-19, given the current health threats.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir claimed that a faction boycotted Tuesday’s meeting of the National Unity Commission, expressing dissatisfaction over a recent meeting in London between Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.

Speaking at a press conference, Fakhrul stated, "Instead of choosing confrontation, both leaders have worked towards peaceful elections—true marks of statesmanship." Hinting at Jamaat-e-Islami, he added, "They know that if a popular party wins through elections, their relevance will diminish. That’s why they’re upset."

He further warned, "Those who imitate the ruling Awami League by suppressing rights, extorting, and abusing power will inevitably turn into what they oppose. This must stop."

BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia will visit Evercare Hospital in Bashundhara this evening for a scheduled health check-up.
Shayrul Kabir Khan of BNP's media wing confirmed that she will leave her Gulshan residence at 6:00 p.m. for the hospital.

Despite being absent in the previous round, Jamaat-e-Islami participated in the second phase of the National Consensus Commission’s ongoing discussions.
The meeting was held at the Foreign Service Academy at 11:30 a.m., where the party was represented by its Nayeb-e-Ameer, Dr. Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher.
Today’s agenda reportedly included discussions on the National Coordination Council (NCC), the upcoming presidential election, and district-level coordination proposals. Around 30 parties and alliances took part in the talks.

At an event marking the birthday of Zubaida Rahman, BNP senior leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi alleged that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina rewrote the country’s history and textbooks according to her personal preferences—something that, he argued, would not have been possible in a democratic system.
Rizvi claimed that Bangladesh’s democratic crisis persists, and significant efforts are still needed to restore democratic governance.
He accused Sheikh Hasina of running a 16-year-long smear campaign against the BNP, which, he says, continues to this day. Rizvi also stated that under Tarique Rahman’s leadership, the BNP is actively working to bring back democracy. He further criticized the ruling government’s treatment of Zubaida Rahman, stating that even she was not spared from state repression, harassment, and false legal charges.

Imran Khan, former Prime Minister of Pakistan and PTI founder, has suspended his planned nationwide protest for two weeks due to escalating global tensions following the Iran-Israel conflict. Speaking to media outside Adiala Jail, his sister Noreen Niazi said Khan prioritized national unity during these uncertain times. Despite leading his party’s movement from jail, Khan chose to pause the campaign. The government has renewed calls for dialogue with PTI, but past efforts stalled over lack of investigation into key incidents.

The United States has announced the temporary closure of its embassy in Jerusalem and consular services in Tel Aviv from June 18 to 21 due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. American officials and their families have been instructed to stay indoors or seek nearby shelter. The U.S. State Department issued the alert citing security concerns. No current plans have been announced to assist private U.S. citizens in leaving Israel. Major Israeli airports and seaports also remain closed.

Although Jamaat-e-Islami skipped Tuesday’s second round of talks with the National Consensus Commission regarding ongoing political reforms, the party has expressed a positive outlook on joining the Wednesday session.

Jamaat Assistant Secretary General Dr. AHM Hamidur Rahman Azad confirmed their consideration for participation. No explanation was provided by senior leader Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher for Tuesday’s absence.