Dhaka: Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Professor Ali Riaz today described the July Charter as a pledge signed in letters of blood, emphasizing its significance in the ongoing struggle for democracy and freedom in Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Ali Riaz acknowledged the tremendous contribution of various groups in the fight against autocracy. He praised the young people who protested, the families who supported the movement, and the workers who fueled the resistance. Speaking as the chief guest at a views-exchange meeting at the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban of Dhaka University, he stressed that the July Charter, though written in black ink, is backed by the sacrifices symbolized in blood.
The meeting, organized by the University Grants Commission, aimed to promote the referendum campaign and motivate voters. Ali Riaz urged the public to support the July Charter in the upcoming referendum to prevent the return of autocracy and safeguard voting rights and freedom of expression. He highlighted the sacrifices made over the past sixteen years by those fighting against fascist rule and outlined the responsibilities entrusted to current leaders.
Ali Riaz emphasized the importance of blocking the resurgence of personal autocracy and shaping the future of Bangladesh. He noted that a significant portion of the population is young, and it is the current generation’s responsibility to set the country’s path for the next 40 years. He expressed confidence that the sacrifices of martyrs would not be in vain and that the people would support the July Charter.
He also recalled past incidents where constitutional amendments were made unilaterally, particularly criticizing the removal of the caretaker government system after the Awami League’s rise to power in 2009. The 15th Amendment, enacted by the Prime Minister’s decision, was highlighted as an example of constitutional manipulation.
Ali Riaz criticized the farcical elections held in 2014, 2018, and 2024 and the flawed process of appointing the Chief Election Commissioner in 2012. He argued that these actions exiled democracy and were based on the whims of individuals rather than a democratic process.
Special guest Monir Haidar, also a Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, spoke about the 48 recommendations for constitutional reform, which are to be decided upon in the referendum. He emphasized the critical choice facing voters: whether to support the July uprising or oppose it. Haidar warned that failure in the referendum could lead to the return of an even more brutal form of fascism.
He reminded the audience of the Proclamation of Independence’s vision for a state founded on equality, dignity, and justice, a goal not yet realized in the 54 years since independence. He urged the attendees to seize the opportunity presented by the July Uprising to achieve the Liberation War’s objectives through the referendum.
The event was presided over by University Grants Commission Chairman Prof Dr. SMA Faiz and was attended by students and teachers from various universities in Dhaka.