Major Hafiz Denounces Referendum as Lacking Legal Basis

Major (Retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, a prominent member of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Standing Committee, has delivered a scathing critique of the nation's proposed referendum, asserting that the process possesses "no legal foundation." His remarks, made during a high-profile exchange with members of the Hindu community, have ignited a fresh wave of political discourse regarding the legitimacy of constitutional reforms.

Speaking as the chief guest at a meeting held at the Madan Mohan Temple premises in Lalmohan, Bhola, Major Hafiz characterised the referendum as a construct of a "special elite group" based in Dhaka. He argued that this influential faction has effectively imposed its will upon the general populace, bypassing traditional democratic safeguards.

A Reluctant Endorsement: The "July Charter"

Perhaps most striking was Major Hafiz’s admission regarding his party's internal deliberations. He revealed that the BNP was initially opposed to the referendum, viewing it as a departure from established legal norms. However, the party felt cornered by the prevailing political climate.

"The BNP did not initially agree to the referendum," Major Hafiz explained. "However, it became apparent that unless we acquiesced, an environment conducive to a general election would never be established. We feared that the election itself might be scrapped entirely."

He further clarified that it was this existential threat to the democratic process that compelled the BNP to sign the "July Charter"—a move he described as a pragmatic, albeit reluctant, necessity rather than a principled endorsement.

Constitutional Concerns and Public Readiness

The veteran politician argued that fundamental changes to the nation’s constitution should be the sole prerogative of elected representatives. By bypassing Parliament in favour of a direct referendum, he suggested the current authorities are overstepping their mandate.

Furthermore, Major Hafiz contended that Bangladesh is currently ill-equipped for such a sophisticated electoral exercise. He pointed to widespread confusion surrounding the promotional campaigns for the referendum, which he claimed have been riddled with inconsistencies and misinformation.

Key Points of Contention: The Referendum Debate

The Path Forward

Major Hafiz’s comments reflect a growing tension between the interim administrative goals and the traditional political parties’ desire for a swift return to parliamentary sovereignty. By labelling the referendum an "elite imposition," he has positioned the BNP as a defender of the common voter’s right to a representative-led constitutional process.

As the political landscape continues to shift, the validity of the "July Charter" and the subsequent moves toward constitutional amendment remain under intense scrutiny. The veteran leader concluded by urging for a return to a system where the "will of the people" is expressed through the ballot box in a general election, rather than through what he deems a flawed and confusing referendum.