Dhaka, July 16 -- National Consensus Commission (NCC) Vice Chairman Prof Ali Riaz has said a referendum would be required for any future change to the caretaker- government system in the Constitution.

"Political parties have agreed to restore the caretaker government provision in the Constitution. Therefore, any future change to this system need to be made through a referendum," Prof Riaz told reporters on Tuesday after the 14th day of the second phase of discussions between political parties and the NCC, held at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka.

He expressed optimism about reaching a consensus next week on the process of appointing the head of the caretaker government.

Regarding discussions on a bicameral parliament, Prof Riaz not...