Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser Professor Dr Ali Riaz on Monday described the July National Charter as a guiding framework for rebuilding Bangladesh’s democratic institutions, stressing that its successful implementation depends largely on active participation from the country’s youth.
Speaking as the chief guest at a view-exchange meeting titled “Public Awareness Campaign on the Referendum-2026” at the Senate Building of Rajshahi University, Prof Riaz said the charter reflects the sacrifices made by young people during the July movement and represents a commitment to building a transparent, accountable state system.
He said the referendum is a crucial step in transforming that commitment into reality, as it seeks to institutionalise reforms that would ensure democratic governance and equal opportunities for future generations.
“The youth are not fighting for themselves alone; they are working so that those who come after them can live in a truly democratic state,” he said.
Highlighting the simplicity of the referendum proposals, Prof Riaz noted that there is nothing confusing or ambiguous for ordinary citizens.
He expressed confidence that people are prepared to support the initiative and encouraged students to take the lead in mobilising public opinion.
“If university students across Rajshahi Division engage in campaigning over the next week, the impact will be significant,” he said, calling on students to take ownership of the awareness drive rather than waiting for official instructions.
Prof Riaz also underscored the need for structural reforms, particularly in constitutional bodies.
He said the referendum aims to ensure the independence of the Public Service Commission to guarantee fairness and equal opportunity in government recruitment.
He further alleged that over the last 16 years, the Anti-Corruption Commission had been weakened and politicised, and said the July Charter provides a pathway to restoring its independence and effectiveness.
The meeting was attended by teachers and students of Rajshahi University, representatives from different professional groups, and referendum campaign workers.
Rajshahi University Vice-Chancellor Saleh Hasan Naqib, along with senior administrators, RUCSU representatives and students, also addressed the programme, urging broader public engagement in the referendum process.
