Dhaka: Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Professor Ali Riaz today asserted that the government has the right to campaign for a ‘Yes’ vote in the upcoming referendum on the July National Charter, describing it as a document achieved “in exchange of blood.”
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Riaz emphasized the significance of the July Charter, which he stated emerged from the sacrifices of martyrs during the 2024 July mass uprising and the suffering of families affected by enforced disappearances over more than 16 years. Co-chairing the National Consensus Commission responsible for drafting the charter, Riaz maintained that the interim government is justified in campaigning for the referendum.
Riaz’s remarks were made during a view exchange meeting at the BIAM Auditorium in the capital, part of a nationwide campaign advocating for a ‘Yes’ vote in the February 12 referendum, which coincides with the scheduled general elections. He highlighted the emotional weight of the Charter, shaped by the sacrifices of students, small business owners, and individuals from various societal backgrounds.
Acknowledging concerns about the legality of government officials campaigning for a ‘Yes’ vote, Riaz clarified that there is no constitutional or legal prohibition against it. He cited international practices, noting that European governments have similarly campaigned for referendums on joining the European Union since 1972.
Riaz argued that the current administration should not be seen as an ordinary caretaker government, as its foundation lies in the sacrifices of 1,400 lives and the injuries of thousands. He reassured that the July Charter was not being imposed, having been developed through extensive discussions with over 30 political parties.
Despite this collaboration, Riaz explained that a referendum is necessary because no single political party fully represents the entire population. He stressed the importance of securing the consent of the apolitical population and the legal protection the referendum would provide. The mandate would empower the upcoming 13th Jatiya National Parliament to implement constitutional reforms without legal challenges.
If successful, the referendum would grant the Parliament the authority to act as a Constitutional Reform Council for the first 180 days, during which it would integrate the reforms of the July Charter into the Constitution, before resuming its regular functions.
Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Monir Haider and Dhaka Divisional Commissioner Md. Sharf Uddin Ahmed Choudhury also contributed to the discussion.