Dhaka, Broadcasting News Corporation: Professor Ali Riaz, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser (with adviser rank), said that the July Charter will ensure the religious rights of every citizen: it will establish a society based on equality, human dignity, and social justice, where the state will not discriminate between individuals based on their religious beliefs. This charter will ensure equal rights for everyone as citizens. He said that in the dream of creating a democratic and humane country, we had to traverse a blood-stained path. We do not want to lose the golden opportunity that has come after so many losses.

The adviser made these remarks on Tuesday (January 27, 2026) at the National Museum auditorium in the capital during an exchange of views with followers of traditional religions about promoting the referendum and encouraging voters.

Ali Riaz said that to save the state, which is suffering due to fascism, it is necessary to bring about extensive reforms by changing the existing system. And it is with the aim of that reform that it is time to vote ‘yes’ in the upcoming referendum. He said that according to Article 7(a) of the Constitution, all citizens of the Republic. It is crucial to participate in the referendum out of conscience so that the future of Bangladesh does not repeat the past. Remember, the desired system of governance can be established through the victory of the referendum. Regarding the appointment and responsibilities of the President, Dr. Ali Riaz, Special Assistant Professor to the Chief Adviser, said that in the past, everything happened according to the Prime Minister’s wishes. According to the Constitution, the President cannot make any decision independently except for appointing the Prime Minister and the Chief Justice. Yet, it is said that as a constitutional institution, appointments by the Election Commission, the Public Service Commission Secretariat, and judges in the judiciary are made by the President. But in reality, these are carried out according to the wishes of the then head of government. Regarding Article 70 of the Constitution, Dr. Riaz said that this system is a huge obstacle to the development of a democratic system. The reform proposal to overcome this system suggests that in matters of money bills and votes of confidence, MPs would remain loyal to their respective parties, while in other matters, they would be able to express independent opinions.