Referendum Key to Prevent Return of Fascism, Says Prof Ali Riaz

Ali Riaz, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser and Chief Coordinator of the referendum’s public awareness campaign, on Tuesday said that the referendum would be one of the most important instruments to ensure that fascism does not re-emerge in Bangladesh in the future.

He made the remarks while addressing a meeting with government officials at Shaheed Abu Sayeed Stadium in the district this afternoon as the chief guest. The meeting was organized to promote the referendum and motivate voters to participate actively.

Professor Ali Riaz said the July National Charter represents a historic agreement between the people of Bangladesh and political parties. “The referendum has been organized to implement this agreement,” he said, adding that the charter is not just a document written in ink.

“Although the July National Charter appears to be written in black ink on paper, every letter of it is written with the blood of the martyrs of the July Uprising,” he said. He stressed that securing a strong ‘Yes’ vote in the referendum is essential to honor the sacrifices made during the uprising and to ensure meaningful and radical reforms in the state.

Highlighting the importance of constitutional and institutional reforms, Professor Ali Riaz said that in the past, various ruling groups had taken advantage of constitutional loopholes to establish authoritarian and fascist systems. “Now is the right time to end this cycle and establish a non-discriminatory state structure for the new generation,” he added.

Clarifying misconceptions, he said the referendum is not about electing any individual or political party. Instead, it aims to create a permanent system that will prevent corruption, looting, and abuse of power. “As a result, any party that comes to power in the future will be held accountable,” he said.

He urged officials and citizens alike to play a responsible role in raising awareness about the referendum, describing it as a foundational step toward building a just, accountable, and democratic Bangladesh.