Prof Ali Riaz calls for implementing reforms following referendum verdict

Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Professor Ali Riaz on Sunday urged political parties to implement the reforms in line with the referendum verdict, noting that the overwhelming ‘Yes’ vote reflects a clear public mandate for change.

“The citizens of Bangladesh gave, in a clear and unequivocal manner, their verdict in favour of the constitutional reform proposals contained in the July National Charter,” he said.

Prof Riaz added: “The verdict demonstrates that a large majority of citizens do not wish to return to the old system or maintain the status quo. Instead, they want change and reform in the state structure.”

He made the remarks at a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital on Saturday morning, BSS reports.

Noting that the responsibility for implementing the public mandate now rests with political parties, Prof Riaz said all parties are committed to state reform.

He called on the ruling party-elect, parties to be represented in parliament and the Constitutional Reform Council, as well as parties outside parliament, to ensure implementation of the referendum verdict through dialogue and unity.

Prof Riaz also urged political parties to continue the respect for differing opinions, tolerance and the tradition of compromise demonstrated during discussions at the National Consensus Commission.

“The verdict represents recognition of the responsibility entrusted to us by those who gave their lives, were injured and fought fearlessly during the July–August mass uprising in 2024. It reflects the people’s commitment to fulfilling that responsibility,” he said.

Referring to the nearly 16 years marked by bloodshed, repression and the cries of the persecuted, Prof Riaz said the referendum expressed the people’s aspiration to build an institutional framework so that such suffering is never repeated.

“The responsibility of implementing the people-endorsed document, drafted by the political parties themselves, now lies with you,” he said, referring to the political parties.

Prof Riaz also called on civil society to support and advance the process.

Addressing young people in particular, he urged them to take the lead in building the future Bangladesh.

Referring to voter turnout figures, Prof Riaz stressed that the referendum result should not be viewed merely in numerical terms.

He expressed gratitude to all for extending wide-ranging support during the awareness campaign on the referendum.

Prof Riaz specially mentioned the families of the July martyrs, July fighters and July political detainees, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Sushashoner Jonno Nagorik (SUJAN), groups advocating an increase in the age limit for government jobs and general students, saying they actively organised and campaigned in support of the referendum.

He also thanked media professionals and journalists for their efforts in raising public awareness about the referendum and expressed appreciation for those who criticised its procedures and methods, stating that all voices—positive and negative—are essential elements of a democratic society.

Prof Riaz congratulated the newly elected Members of Parliament and their respective political parties.

He also congratulated the public for participating in large numbers in what he described as a genuine election after a long period, thereby defeating all forms of conspiracy and fears of violence.

Replying to a question from a journalist on whether BNP would implement all the reforms contained in the July Charter, Prof Riaz said he hoped the party would respect the people’s mandate, as it has a record of adopting major reform initiatives.

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Deputy Press Secretary Mohammad Abul Kalam Azad Majumder were present at the briefing.