Bangladesh to ask ‘Yes/No’ on four July Charter themes
S Arefin 
Summary:
In a televised address, Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus said Bangladesh will hold a nationwide referendum on the same day as the next parliamentary election. Voters will answer simple “Yes/No” questions tied to the July National Charter so the next parliament can proceed with agreed reforms.
1) July Charter implementation and election-time framework
The first item seeks public approval to implement the July Charter and its listed constitutional proposals. It also covers how an election-time administration, the Election Commission, and other constitutional bodies would operate in line with the Charter’s rules during the polling period.
2) Parliament structure: toward a bicameral system
Voters will be asked whether Bangladesh should move to a two-chamber parliament. The plan outlines the current Jatiya Sangsad as the lower house and proposes an upper house of about 100 members, allocated broadly in proportion to nationwide vote share. Key constitutional amendments would require consent from that upper chamber.
3) Institutional and rights reforms agreed by parties
A third question groups around 30 reform points where major parties reached consensus in the July talks. Highlights include:
More women’s representation in parliament, Deputy Speaker from the opposition, Election of parliamentary committee chairs, Term limits for the prime minister, Adjusted presidential powers, Stronger judicial independence, Expansion of fundamental rights, and Greater authority for local government. Parties forming the next government would be expected to carry these changes forward.
4) Additional reforms beyond the Charter
A final question asks voters to endorse the process for adopting further reforms—beyond the July Charter—through cross-party agreement and formal procedures in the new parliament.
Why this referendum matters
Holding the referendum with the general election aims to convert political consensus into a clear public mandate. A “Yes” would let the next parliament fast-track the Charter’s roadmap, including any constitutional steps. A “No” would send the package back for further review and negotiation.
Source: Chief Adviser’s address
About The Author
Sultanul Arefin 
Suzan Seherin 
