Poor referendum turnout could undo reform efforts, Adviser Sakhawat warns

Shipping Adviser M Sakhawat Hussain has warned that failure to secure proper public participation in the upcoming referendum on proposed reforms could see Bangladesh revert to its previous system of governance.

He made the remarks on Wednesday at a roundtable discussion organised by the citizens’ platform SHUJAN at the CIRDAP auditorium in Dhaka.

The referendum, set to take place alongside the general election on Feb 12, is intended to implement reforms recommended by several reform commissions under the July National Charter.

Speaking at the event, Sakhawat questioned whether the promised reforms, particularly constitutional changes, were being adequately pursued.

“Even as a member of the government, I have to ask whether the reforms we spoke about have actually been carried out, especially the constitutional ones,” he said.

He also raised doubts about the political commitment of major parties to reform, saying their positions remain unclear.

“What is the mindset of our political parties? Do they want continuity, or do they want change?” he asked. “We have not heard a clear position from most parties. A newly formed party, the NCP, has spoken repeatedly in favour of reform, but the position of others is still not explicit.”

Sakhawat said the success of the referendum would depend heavily on voter awareness and participation, noting that many voters may not yet understand how the process will work.

With around a month remaining before the vote, he said public outreach efforts had so far been limited.

“I would urge the Election Commission to engage directly with the public on the referendum - explaining how it will be conducted and to seek support from other organisations if needed. This is essential if we want to avoid returning to the governance practices of the past.”

He added that the government would provide all necessary support to ensure effective public engagement.