Rajshahi: Professor Ali Riaz, special assistant to the Chief Adviser, emphasized the importance of establishing an upper house in the bicameral legislature to prevent the concentration of power in a single individual. His remarks were made during a discussion session at Dr Kaiser Rahman Chowdhury Auditorium of Rajshahi Medical College aimed at promoting the upcoming referendum and encouraging voter participation.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Prof Riaz highlighted that Bangladesh’s current system has historically allowed power to be concentrated in one person due to institutional weaknesses. He stressed the need for institutional solutions rather than relying on individuals. The proposed July charter includes the creation of an upper house in parliament to ensure representation of the populace and all political parties, reflecting a broad consensus in constitutional amendments.
Prof Riaz underscored a vision for a state that prioritizes equality, human dignity, and justice, pointing out that 54 years of institutional decay have often enabled personal or party interests to undermine governance. He praised the youth’s role in fostering opportunities through the 2024 popular uprising to prevent the rise of fascism.
Monir Haider, a special assistant (consensus), noted the importance of public approval of the July charter via the upcoming referendum to protect the future of the next generation. He warned that failure to pass the referendum could lead to a resurgence of authoritarianism. Haider assured that campaigning for ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ votes would not face restrictions, emphasizing that the referendum is a collective agenda rather than a candidate election.
The session was chaired by Divisional Commissioner Dr ANM Bazlur Rashid and attended by notable figures such as Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr SM Abdur Razzak, Rajshahi Range Police DIG Mohammad Shahjahan, and Rajshahi Police Commissioner Dr Mohammad Zillur Rahman. Deputy Commissioners, police superintendents, other government officials, local journalists, and civil society members from across the Rajshahi division also participated.
Dr Bazlur Rashid highlighted various initiatives at divisional, district, and sub-district levels aimed at raising awareness about the referendum and urged officials to fulfill their responsibilities at this pivotal moment.