Dhaka: Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Professor Ali Riaz today emphasized that the forthcoming referendum is a crucial step to ensure Bangladesh never reverts to a fascist regime. “The opportunity created by the referendum would not come again in the next five or even 10 years. This is a historic chance to decide how Bangladesh will be governed in the future. Everyone must work together to make the best use of this opportunity,” he stated during a virtual meeting organized for around 17,000 officers and field-level officials of the agriculture department.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting was chaired by Agriculture Secretary Dr Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian and also featured Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Monir Haidar as a special guest. Senior officials of the agriculture ministry, along with officers and field staff from its subordinate departments and agencies, participated virtually.
Professor Riaz highlighted the unique role of the agriculture ministry, which has personnel deployed down to the upazila, union, and village levels, providing them with regular contact with the public. He urged these officials to leverage their positions to raise public awareness about the referendum, presenting it as a straightforward ‘yes’ or ‘no’ vote to ensure clarity and understanding among the populace.
As the chief coordinator of the public awareness campaign on the referendum, Professor Riaz reminded attendees of the sacrifices made during the 2024 mass uprising and subsequent struggles, emphasizing the responsibility to prevent a return to past governance failures. He encouraged agriculture officials to clearly explain the potential changes and future implications of the referendum to the public.
Special guest Monir Haidar expressed the aspiration for a democratic Bangladesh for future generations, noting that significant progress is still needed despite the passage of 54 years. Reflecting on the governance of the past 16 years and the July uprising, he pointed out the urgency of major reforms in the governance system and constitutional framework, urging widespread participation in the referendum to prevent the resurgence of a fascist system.
Agriculture Secretary Dr Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian outlined the ministry’s commitment to raising public awareness through various initiatives. These include installing banners, distributing leaflets, using mobile vans and regional radio for message dissemination, organizing meetings and rallies, and utilizing the agriculture department’s 24/7 hotline service to promote understanding and participation in the referendum.