Describing the July National Charter as more than a written statement, Professor Dr. Ali Riaz, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, said it represents a long-term vision for Bangladesh, forged through the sacrifices of young lives.
He said effective implementation of the charter would further solidify the country’s path toward accountable and democratic governance.
Dr. Riaz made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at an exchange meeting titled “Public Awareness Campaign on the Referendum–2026,” held at the Senate Building of Rajshahi University (RU).
Highlighting the role of youth, he said the ongoing struggle of Bangladesh’s young generation aims to ensure a transparent and democratic state system for future citizens, noting that the upcoming referendum is a crucial step in that process.
He emphasized that the referendum contains nothing confusing for the general public and expressed confidence that people are prepared to cast a decisive “Yes” vote.
Dr. Riaz suggested that if nearly 150,000 university students from the Rajshahi division actively campaign in favor of the referendum over the next week and take responsibility for mobilizing voters, it would significantly boost the campaign’s impact.
He further stated that the referendum is necessary to guarantee equal access to government jobs by ensuring the independence of the Public Service Commission (PSC) within the constitutional framework.
Referring to past governance, he alleged that over the last 16 years the Anti-Corruption Commission had been misused as a political instrument against opposition forces. According to him, full implementation of the July National Charter is vital to establishing a truly independent and functional Anti-Corruption Commission.
Teachers and students of Rajshahi University, professionals from various sectors, and referendum campaign workers attended the meeting. Speakers discussed the aims, significance, and long-term implications of the referendum and encouraged participants to actively spread public awareness.
Calling for a sense of moral responsibility, Dr. Riaz urged everyone involved to honor the memory of those who lost their lives in July by working proactively, adding that citizens should take initiative rather than wait for official instructions.
Rajshahi University Vice-Chancellor Saleh Hasan Naqib, along with faculty members, senior officials, RUCSU representatives, and students, also addressed the gathering.
