The National Citizens’ Party (NCP) has called for both national and local government elections to be held under a non-partisan caretaker government.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday during a break in the second phase of the National Consensus Commission dialogue at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, NCP Joint Convenor Sarwar Tushar emphasized the need for neutrality at all electoral levels.

"Just as national elections should be held under a caretaker government, we believe local government elections must also follow suit," Tushar said, adding, "There are technical aspects to this that require further discussion."

The NCP expressed support for a four-month tenure for the caretaker government, particularly if local elections are included in the electoral roadmap. However, Tushar noted flexibility on the issue:

"Whether it’s three or four months, we’re open to discussion. But if local elections are incorporated, a four-month term may be necessary."

The party also voiced support for amending Article 70 of the Constitution to allow Members of Parliament greater freedom in voting independently—excluding matters of confidence votes and money bills.

"MPs should be able to vote independently on most issues beyond party lines. This would strengthen parliamentary democracy," said Tushar.

However, the party proposed excluding constitutional amendments and presidential elections from such flexibility, citing historical political instability caused by past amendments.

"Constitutional changes have sparked major political crises before. These matters require more inclusive, long-term, and all-party dialogue," he added.

Summing up NCP’s position, Tushar stated: "We’ve made our stance clear. We want to see a political culture that fosters realistic and broadly accepted national consensus in decision-making."