BNP senior leader Salahuddin Ahmed on Saturday announced that the party would reinstate “absolute faith and trust in Almighty Allah” in Constitution's preamble if it returns to power, reversing changes made under the 15th Amendment.
Speaking at the International Khatm e Nabuwwat grand rally at Suhrawardy Udyan, Salahuddin recalled that former President Ziaur Rahman first added “Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim” to the Constitution and included the principle of full faith in Allah in the preamble and Article 8 of the fundamental principles of state policy through the Fifth Amendment.
He noted that these provisions were removed in 2011 when the 15th Amendment restored secularism, following a Supreme Court ruling that declared the Fifth Amendment illegal.
Salahuddin assured the large gathering that if the BNP is voted to power, these constitutional changes would be reversed. “InshaAllah, we will restore it,” he said, framing it as part of the party’s commitment to uphold Islamic principles in governance.
The BNP leader also urged political parties, Islamic scholars and citizens to remain united to materialise these demands.
"For this proposal to be adopted, everyone must remain united. Everyone in the National Parliament must be united, and all Muslims across Bangladesh must be united. InshaAllah, we will accept your proposal. As I said earlier, those who are not on the side of the Messenger of Allah Muhammad (peace be upon him) cannot be Muslims."
The Ahmadiyya community was founded in 1889 by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. They believe that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad is the Promised Messiah of the latter days. They also believe in the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) as the Seal of the Prophets, but hold that a prophet can come after him as a reformer.
Salahuddin said Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had declared that he is the final Prophet and Messenger.
"Anyone claiming prophethood after him falls outside the teachings of the Prophet. We became Muslims by believing in the finality of prophethood. As citizens of Bangladesh, we take pride in our national identity, but the unity of the global Muslim community is our strength," he said.
Referring to global conflicts, including in Palestine and the suffering of Rohingya Muslims, the BNP leader said Muslims around the world are facing persecution because of division and weakness.
