Dhaka: Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain emphasized today that a referendum could prevent the establishment of fascism in Bangladesh. He shared these insights while addressing a workshop at the Islamic Foundation auditorium in Agargaon, which aimed to enhance public awareness about the referendum, as per an official handout.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Khalid highlighted the tendency of leaders in Bangladesh to extend their rule through various strategies once they assume power, a trend observed over the past 54 years. He argued that a referendum could bring about a necessary change, enabling cooperation between the government and opposition parties in forming institutions like the caretaker government, the Election Commission, and the Public Service Commission.
Dr Khalid also mentioned the potential of the Islamic Foundation’s extensive national network, suggesting that its strengthening could significantly benefit the country. He assured that plans would be made to upgrade the Islamic Foundation into a directorate.
The workshop was chaired by Islamic Foundation Director General Abdur Salam Khan and attended by notable figures such as Chief Adviser’s Special Assistants Professor Ali Riaz and Monir Haider, Cabinet Secretary Dr. Sheikh Abdur Rashid, and Religious Affairs Secretary Md. Kamal Uddin as special guests.
During the event, Professor Ali Riaz expressed that a ‘Yes’ outcome in the referendum would ensure that another fascist leader like Hasina does not arise in Bangladesh. He emphasized that the referendum will shape the nation’s trajectory for the next 50 years and urged imams to actively participate in raising public awareness about its significance.
The event saw the participation of distinguished Islamic scholars and field-level officials of the Islamic Foundation from across the country.