Chief whip Nurul Islam Moni has said that amending the constitution is the only viable path to implementing the commitments of the July National Charter, as the country navigates a political transition that requires both reform and legal continuity.

Speaking at a views-exchange meeting with reporters at the LD Hall of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Monday, he said, the administration is currently working within the framework of the existing constitution, which continues to provide the legal basis for Jatiya Sangsad, the interim government’s arrangements, and the Election Commission.

Although there is ongoing debate over whether a completely new constitution is necessary or reforms should be achieved through amendments, lawmakers’ experience will confirm that amending the constitution is the only practical and lawful route to achieving the target, he said.

The government is committed to adhering to ‘every line, semicolon and comma’ of the July National Charter signed at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad, he added.

Referring to institutional learning within Jatiya Sangsad, the chief whip said that out of 300 lawmakers in the current parliament, 220 are new, and they are still gaining experience in parliamentary procedures.

After two or three sessions, it will become clear to lawmakers that amending the constitution is the only path forward rather than a complete replacement, he said.

He called on reporters to act as ‘warriors’ for democracy, urging the media to play a proactive and responsible role in safeguarding democratic institutions and ensuring accountability.

The chief whip said that journalists must see themselves as active participants in the country’s democratic journey.

He said that the media should contribute meaningfully to the struggle to establish democracy so that they can remain accountable for their role in national progress.

Addressing the event, whip Ruhul Quddus Talukder Dulu said that the 10th Wage Board should be formed without delay for the welfare of journalists and to improve their standard of living.

He said that the government had already issued a gazette declaring the media an industry, but, in reality, it has yet to receive full industrial status.

Because of this, he said, many journalists working in different media outlets are not receiving regular wages and allowances.

Dulu further said that journalists should be provided with a salary structure and benefits comparable to those enjoyed by government officials.

He also remarked that if journalists are well, the country and democracy will also remain strong.