GM Quader Urges ‘No’ Vote in Proposed Referendum

The Chairman of the Jatiya Party, GM Quader, has issued a staunch call for the public to reject the upcoming national referendum, labelling the move as unconstitutional and a threat to national stability. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, where he also announced the party’s final candidate list for the 13th National Parliamentary Election 2026, Quader warned that the proposed plebiscite could plunge the country into a period of prolonged volatility.

Constitutional Concerns and Legal Integrity

Mr Quader argued that the interim government, having taken an oath to uphold and preserve the Constitution, is now paradoxically attempting to bypass it. He maintained that there is no constitutional provision for amending the nation’s supreme law via a simple “Yes/No” referendum. Under the current legal framework, only a duly elected Parliament possesses the authority to amend the Constitution through established parliamentary procedures.

“It is utterly unrealistic to present such a complex legal matter to the general public in a binary format,” Quader stated. “To expect villagers and the lay public to grasp the nuances of constitutional reform in this manner is illogical. I highly doubt whether those proposing this even understand the gravity of what they are suggesting.”

Jatiya Party: Election Participation Overview

Allegations of Intimidation and Harassment

The Jatiya Party Chairman painted a bleak picture of the current political climate, alleging that his candidates and supporters are living in a state of constant fear. He claimed that voters are being threatened with arrest and “false cases” if they dare to support the Jatiya Party.

“Even members of the police are warning our activists that they may be forced to arrest them if they attempt to campaign in the field,” he revealed. He further highlighted the plight of three candidates who remain in prison; despite securing bail in several instances, they are repeatedly slapped with new charges to prevent their release.

A Plea for Electoral Neutrality

Addressing the Chief Election Commissioner, GM Quader urged the Commission to ensure a “level playing field” for all participants. He expressed concern over what he described as a systematic effort to marginalise the Jatiya Party from the political landscape.

Accompanied by Jatiya Party Secretary General Barrister Shamim Haider Patwary and other senior leaders, Quader concluded by reiterating that without genuine security for candidates and the abandonment of the “unconstitutional” referendum, the integrity of the upcoming election remains in serious jeopardy.