Mymensingh: Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser and Chief Coordinator of public awareness activities for the upcoming referendum, Professor Ali Riaz, has stated that there is no legal restriction preventing government employees from campaigning for a ‘yes’ vote in the referendum scheduled for February 12 next. “The campaigning for a ‘yes’ vote is not only permissible but also a moral responsibility of the government employees,” Riaz expressed this view while addressing a divisional exchange meeting aimed at promoting the referendum and motivating voters.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof Riaz highlighted the importance of the referendum by referencing the sacrifices made by countless martyrs who laid the foundation of the current democratic journey. He emphasized that the spirit of the July Uprising would be reflected through the referendum. “If we do not want democracy, rule of law, and humanity to be sacrificed to the will of one individual, if we do not want fascist tyranny, corruption, and plunder of national wealth to return, then the referendum must be won by a ‘yes’ vote,” he stated.
Addressing concerns about the role of public servants, Prof Riaz mentioned that discussions with constitutional experts, former judges, and lawyers had resulted in a unanimous opinion that government employees can legally campaign for a ‘yes’ vote. He accused those opposing this view of spreading confusion with ulterior motives.
Prof Riaz recalled the period from 2009 to 2024, noting that those who resisted self-centered authoritarianism faced persecution and adversity. He stated that these individuals had left two key responsibilities: preventing the return of authoritarian rule and establishing a clear roadmap for Bangladesh’s future.
Acknowledging the public’s distrust in voting, Prof Riaz noted that the referendum would be a new experience for many citizens. He stressed the importance of clearly explaining the voting process, the meaning of ‘yes’ and ‘no’ votes, and urged campaigners to use the ‘tick mark’ on the ballot as the main campaign symbol to encourage voter participation.
He also reiterated that the interim government operates under three mandates following the July-August 2024 Mass Uprising: reform, justice, and elections. The government is tasked with creating a conducive environment, while the Election Commission and courts independently conduct elections and trials.
Prof Riaz criticized past constitutional amendments, particularly the 15th Amendment, which he said was made at the behest of a single individual and led to the abolition of the caretaker government system. He called for an end to unilateral decision-making in constitutional amendments.
Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin, speaking as a special guest, stressed that a ‘yes’ verdict was crucial for institutionalizing democracy, preventing corruption and misrule, and ensuring a prosperous future for future generations. He dismissed claims that a ‘yes’ vote would remove religious phrases from the constitution as deliberate misinformation.
Journalist Monir Haider, Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant (consensus building), also emphasized the necessity of voting ‘yes’ to fulfill the dreams of various societal groups who suffered under a previous regime. He called on government employees to inspire citizens to vote ‘yes’ to uphold the spirit of the July Uprising.
The meeting, chaired by Mymensingh Divisional Commissioner Farah Shammi, was attended by senior officials from various departments.