Pirojpur: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today stated that the referendum is being conducted to ensure that fascism or autocracy does not arise in the country in the future. “If the people believe that by voting ‘Yes’ they can take the country one step forward toward a new and democratic system of governance, then they will give their verdict accordingly,” she remarked while addressing a rally at Pirojpur Government Boys’ High School, aimed at promoting the referendum.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Farida Akhter highlighted that the upcoming election is not solely about electing representatives. It also includes arrangements to gather public opinion through a referendum on crucial state governance issues. She noted that four fundamental issues have been presented to the public as a single package, allowing them to express their views through agreement or disagreement.
She further elaborated that the elected candidates will assume responsibility for running the state and forming the government. However, they will not have the opportunity to act against the July Charter, which will serve as the foundation of the future state system. Various reform initiatives, including an independent Police Commission, have been adopted through ordinances, with ongoing work on these matters.
In response to a query about governmental communication post-election schedule announcement, Farida Akhter clarified that the government is not campaigning for or against any candidate or political party. She emphasized that the government’s actions align with cabinet decisions and that the interim government is focused on organizing elections and seeking public opinion on the future state system.
Regarding constitutional reform, she acknowledged the need for change in provisions that were anti-people and concentrated power. However, she assured that constitutional reform would not undermine fundamental rights or religious freedom.
The event was organized by the Pirojpur District Administration, with Deputy Commissioner of Pirojpur Abu Sayeed presiding. Superintendent of Police Mohammad Manjur Ahmed Siddique, Deputy Director of the District Information Office Parikshit Choudhury, and District Election Officer Md. Abdul Mannan were present, among others.