Khulna: Prof Ali Riaz, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, emphasized at a consultation meeting that the key to the nation’s success rests with its people. The meeting was organized by the Khulna Divisional Administration at the Divisional Commissioner’s Office auditorium. Prof Riaz highlighted the importance of public participation in the upcoming referendum and voter mobilisation.

According to United News of Bangladesh, Prof Riaz, also serving as the chief coordinator of the public awareness campaign team for the referendum, urged citizens to vote ‘Yes’ to reform the country and establish equality and dignity. He emphasized the significance of marking their ballots with a tick to support the reform initiative.

Prof Riaz referred to the July National Charter 2025, stating that it reflects the aspirations of the people. He noted that although the charter is printed in black ink, its true meaning is deeply significant. He called on citizens to recognize the importance of the July National Charter 2025 and its role in shaping the nation’s future.

He further explained that the referendum is the optimal mechanism to determine the future system of government. Despite the interim government’s neutral stance in national elections, it supports the ‘Yes’ vote in the referendum. Prof Riaz also mentioned that the constitution allows public servants to campaign for the ‘Yes’ vote.

Special Guest Monir Haider, Special Assistant (Consensus) to the Chief Adviser, spoke about the 2024 mass uprising’s goal to create a society free of fascism and inequality. He stated that the referendum serves as a gauge for public support for a new Bangladesh, and voting in favor of the July National Charter will constitutionally block the path of fascism.

The meeting was presided over by Khulna Divisional Commissioner Md Mokhtar Ahmed and addressed by various officials, including Prof Dr Md Maksud Helali, Vice-Chancellor of Khulna University of Engineering and Technology, Range DIG Md Rezaul Haque, and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Md Zahidul Hasan. Officials from all 10 districts of Khulna Division, including district, divisional, and upazila-level officers, election officials, representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, teachers, students, civil society members, NGO representatives, and media personnel, attended the consultation meeting.