July Charter designed to dismantle authoritarian rule, says Ali Riaz

Bangla Press Desk:   Prof Ali Riaz, special assistant to the chief adviser, urged citizens to vote ‘yes’ in the upcoming referendum, saying the July Charter aims to prevent any future authoritarian rule in Bangladesh.

Speaking at a discussion on voter awareness at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology auditorium on Sunday morning, he said the nation had endured 16 years under dictatorships and only gained temporary relief through the 2024 mass uprising.

“Many people ask, who is the candidate for ‘yes’? I say you are, I am, we all are,” Riaz said. “A ‘yes’ vote will pave the way for a democratic and humane Bangladesh.” He warned that while the country temporarily escaped fascism, the existing constitution still allows for authoritarian control, making the charter essential.

Riaz highlighted that the July uprising represents a historic achievement, opening opportunities to strengthen democracy, justice, and citizens’ rights. “This referendum will ensure that the caretaker government and election commission function jointly, the ruling party cannot alter the constitution at will, and significant amendments will require public consent,” he said.

He also noted that the charter would limit any prime minister to a maximum of 10 years in office, empower the opposition in key parliamentary posts, and guarantee an independent judiciary. “If ‘yes’ prevails, the path to fascism, created by constitutional loopholes, will be blocked,” Riaz said.

The event also featured speeches from the vice-chancellors of Sylhet Science and Technology University, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sunamganj Science and Technology University, and Habiganj Science and Technology University.

BP/SP