Bangladesh's Bold Step: National Referendum on 'July Charter'

Bangladesh is set to hold a national referendum on implementing the 'July Charter' for state reform, following a student-led uprising in 2024. Interim government head Muhammad Yunus announced the referendum will coincide with February's parliamentary elections. The charter aims for political reform and increased rights but faces opposition.

Bangladesh is taking a significant step toward political reform with a national referendum on the 'July Charter'. Drafted after last year's fatal student-led uprising, the charter seeks to reshape politics and institutions, including increasing women's representation and enhancing judicial independence. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, leading the interim government, announced this development on Thursday.

Scheduled to coincide with parliamentary elections in early February, Yunus emphasized that it would not delay reforms but make the electoral process more festive and cost-effective. Parliamentary elections are set to be free and fair, marking another leap forward for Bangladesh's democracy.

The charter has received mixed reactions, with most political parties signing on. However, the National Citizens Party, birthed from the uprising, and four left-leaning parties have abstained, citing a lack of legal guarantees for the charter's promises. Despite criticisms, Yunus hopes for national consensus, envisioning a 'New Bangladesh' born from these ambitious reforms.

(With inputs from agencies.)