BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has criticized the misuse of the President’s constitutional power to grant pardons, saying it has often encouraged crimes such as murder.
Speaking on Thursday, he said, “BNP agrees in principle that the issue of pardons should be regulated by law and included in the constitution.” He welcomed the discussion of requiring permission from affected families before granting pardons, describing it as “satisfactory progress.”
Salahuddin also expressed BNP’s support for establishing permanent High Court benches at divisional levels to improve public access to justice. However, he emphasized, “This decision should be taken after consultations with the Supreme Court and the Chief Justice.”
He added, “Our responsibility is to the people. Discussions are based on national consensus, not partisan interests. The people will judge who is cooperating and to what extent.”
Salahuddin reiterated BNP’s demand for swift formulation of a national charter, reflecting the party’s focus on institutional reforms.
