Date of Referendum to Be Announced Today

The long-awaited announcement regarding the implementation of the July Charter may come today. For this purpose, the government has called a press conference at the Chief Advisor’s office at 12 noon. Officials say that the press conference will include several important announcements. Earlier, Chief Advisor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus had convened a special meeting.

Reliable sources indicate that besides the announcement of the July Charter’s implementation, the date for the national referendum could also be revealed at today’s press conference. Additionally, the long-standing disputes among major political parties regarding the referendum and the July Charter may also see a resolution. Multiple responsible government sources have told the media that there is hope behind the scenes.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, senior leaders of BNP, Jamaat, and NCP were observed criticizing each other over the referendum and the July National Charter. No side spoke with leniency, and each blamed the other. Amid this situation, the main conflict has arisen in the form of notes of dissent. Although the commission has taken final decisions, political parties have raised objections on several issues. Out of the 84 proposals in the July Charter, 61 contain some form of note of dissent. Among 20 key proposals, 9 have objections from BNP.

Sources further indicate that although Jamaat has presented strong objections and arguments, in the end, they will accept a referendum on the date of the national election.

Notes of Dissent on Public Interest Issues: Among the 61 proposals with notes of dissent, some are complete and some partial. For example, all parties agree on the proposal to create an upper house in the upcoming parliament, but the commission has decided it will follow a PR (proportional representation) system. BNP has objections regarding the PR aspect. The charter outlines a balance of power between the President and the Prime Minister, stating that appointments to Bangladesh Bank Governor, Anti-Corruption Commission, Public Service Commission, Comptroller and Auditor General, Law Commission, and Energy Regulatory Commission will not be under government control. The President will appoint these positions through a special search committee without the Prime Minister’s advice. BNP has a note of dissent on this. The commission also decided that the same person cannot be Prime Minister, party leader, and parliamentary leader simultaneously. Lawyers cannot be affiliated with any party. BNP has notes of dissent on both proposals.

Meanwhile, Jamaat has submitted a note of dissent on the financial autonomy of local government. Government employees working under local administration will be under the control of elected representatives, which Jamaat objects to. Regarding women’s seats in parliament, Chormonai and Khelafat Nezame Islam have objections. NCP has not raised any objections on any proposal.

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