Shipping Adviser M Sakhawat Hussain has warned that failure to secure proper public participation in the upcoming referendum on proposed reforms could see Bangladesh revert to its previous system of governance. The referendum, set to take place alongside the general election on Feb 12, is intended to implement reforms recommended by several reform commissions under the July National Charter. Speaking at the event, Sakhawat questioned whether the promised reforms, particularly constitutional changes, were being adequately pursued. He also raised doubts about the political commitment of major parties to reform, saying their positions remain unclear. “What is the mindset of our political parties?

Source: bd News24 January 07, 2026 10:20 UTC