What will happen if ‘No’ wins in the referendum?

Even if the issues on which BNP holds a different view pass with a ‘Yes’ in the referendum, they will not pose any significant challenge to the next government, according to author and South Asia researcher Altaf Parvez. He expressed this opinion to Ganakantha via a telephone call on Thursday.

Altaf Parvez said that the issues mentioned in the July Charter Implementation Order do not create any obligation for the next government to implement them. There are no fundamental matters in it. If it had included changes in the education system, tax decisions, or land reforms, there would have been political and social pressure. But currently, the issues in the July Charter or those going to the referendum do not concern the general people; rather, it is the political parties who are worried.

He also said that analyzing the July order and the referendum questions, it seems that the views of Jamaat and its allies have been given more attention. This is creating a political crisis, but it is not a major obstacle for the next government.

Some of BNP’s differing issues are included in the referendum. If a ‘Yes’ wins there and BNP secures a two-thirds majority in the parliament, BNP could initiate new constitutional amendments. Additionally, if a broader victory is achieved, BNP or any party could gain a majority in the upper house and implement necessary changes.

Regarding whether the referendum issues can be changed, Altaf Parvez said that there is still hesitation regarding the July order and the referendum. The party elected by the people can make changes according to its approach. Further discussion on this matter will take place, and then everything will become clear.

Khaborwala/TSN