Friday the 13th brings new dawn to Bangladesh: Citizens reject authoritarianism, say 'yes' to 'July Charter'
Bangladesh voters have shown overwhelming support for sweeping constitutional reforms under the “July Charter,” aiming to curb prime ministerial power and reshape elections after the 2024 uprising. What changes could redefine the country’s future? Scroll down.
A new dawn in Bangladesh
Bangladesh on Friday (Feb 13) appeared to be heading toward a new dawn that comes with sweeping constitutional changes as voters backed a major reform proposal alongside parliamentary elections, according to early media reports. The referendum, held together with the country’s 13th general election, focused on an 84-point reform blueprint known as the July Charter, drafted in the aftermath of the massive 2024 uprising, which led to the ouster of former PM Sheikh Hasina.
A 'YES' to referendum
The 'July Charter,' was born out of Bangladesh's desire to keep its future safe from authoritarian rule like that of former PMs Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina. Preliminary reporting by The Daily Star indicated that about 65.5 per cent of voters (or 27,00,844 people) voted 'YES' for the reforms as counting continued at 1:30 pm (local time).
Which constitutional reforms gained public support?
The July Charter proposes a wide range of constitutional amendments. Scroll down to read all about them.
Authoritarianism not allowed: PM's powers to be limited
Among the most significant are limits on executive authority, including a rule that no individual can serve as prime minister for more than ten years or two terms. The prime minister would also no longer be allowed to hold dual roles, as the 'head of the party' and the 'head of government,' simultaneously.
Emergency powers would be restricted, requiring written approval from the cabinet and the opposition leader before a state of emergency could be declared.
Bangladesh to have bicameral legislature
Another major proposal is the creation of a bicameral legislature. The existing Jatiya Sangsad would become the lower house, while a new 100-member senate would serve as the upper chamber. The reforms also call for increasing reserved seats for women in parliament to 100.
Electoral reforms
The referendum also proposes restoring a non-partisan caretaker government to oversee any general elections, along with restructuring the election commission to include independent experts vetted by the parliamentary committee.
Paper ballots would become mandatory, reflecting ongoing distrust of electronic voting machines (EVMs).
Judicial changes
Judicial reforms include the creation of a Supreme Judicial Council and an independent appointments commission to reduce political influence over the courts. The charter also introduces new constitutional rights, including data protection and uninterrupted internet access.
What about the Parliamentary elections? Early results signal political shift
Meanwhile, in the parliamentary elections, the early numbers suggest strong public backing for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) party which is led by Tarique Rahman, the son of former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia. Projections suggest the BNP and its allies are heading toward a majority in parliament, with local media reporting they have secured over 180 seats so far. Counting is still underway, and the Bangladesh Election Commission has yet to announce official results.
BNP leader Tarique Rahman has, however, urged supporters to postpone celebrations following the death of his mother, former prime minister Khaleda Zia, ahead of the vote.