Will Bangladesh's Political Parties Endorse the July Charter?
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Synopsis
In a crucial moment for Bangladesh's political landscape, several key parties are set to review the 'July National Charter-2025'. With divided opinions on the timing of a referendum, the outcome could shape the nation's future. Will they unite or diverge on this pivotal agreement?
Key Takeaways
- Major parties reviewing the 'July National Charter-2025'
- Disagreements on referendum timing
- BNP proposes concurrent voting with national elections
- Jamaat and NCP favor an earlier referendum
- NCC targets completion of signing by mid-October
Dhaka, Oct 11 (NationPress) Several political parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the radical Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami, and the National Citizen Party (NCP), have announced that they will finalize their decision regarding the signing of the 'July National Charter-2025' after they thoroughly examine the complete draft, local media indicated.
These recent developments arise amid disagreements concerning the charter's implementation process, particularly regarding the timing of the referendum intended to secure public approval.
Reports suggest a division where the BNP and its allies advocate for the referendum to coincide with the national elections scheduled for February 2026, while Jamaat, NCP, and several other entities contend that it should occur prior to the elections.
The BNP asserts that conducting the referendum alongside the national election would be the most sensible and economical approach.
“Our proposal — to hold the referendum on the same day as the national election — is the most balanced and inclusive. Almost everyone agrees with it,” quoted Salahuddin Ahmed, a leader from the BNP, as reported by Bangladesh’s leading daily Prothom Alo.
Conversely, Jamaat, NCP, and other parties argue that an earlier referendum would garner greater public interest and involvement.
In a conversation with Prothom Alo, Abdullah Mohammad Taher, who represented Jamaat during discussions with the consensus commission, stated, “We will first review the contents of the July Charter and then proceed to sign it.”
Additionally, Jamaat leader Mia Golam Porwar mentioned that the party would determine its course of action after assessing how consensus and differing opinions are integrated into the charter and how the referendum is structured and timed.
Meanwhile, Jabed Rasin, the joint convener of NCP, who took part in discussions with the NCC, indicated that the party has not yet received the final version of the charter or details regarding its implementation.
“We are still awaiting the final copy of the July Charter. Furthermore, the details of its implementation remain undisclosed. The NCP will make its decisions based on the Consensus Commission's direction,” Rasin remarked.
On Wednesday, the NCC revealed its aim to facilitate political parties in signing the July National Charter by October 16.
“The Commission will present its final recommendations to the government by October 10. The goal is to complete the official signing of the July National Charter by the political parties on October 15 and 16,” quoted Ali Riaz, Vice Chair of NCC, as stated by the Bangladeshi media outlet United News of Bangladesh (UNB).
Earlier in July, the second phase of discussions involving 30 political parties and the NCC was initiated due to increasing political uncertainty and instability in the country.
Several political entities, including Jamaat, NCP, and Islami Andolan, have expressed concerns regarding the draft of the July National Charter.
Point of View
The ongoing discussions among political parties in Bangladesh reflect the country's pressing need for stability. The differences in opinion regarding the July National Charter highlight the complexities of achieving consensus in a politically fragmented landscape. It is essential for the involved parties to prioritize the nation's welfare over individual agendas.
NationPress
11/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the July National Charter-2025?
The July National Charter-2025 is a proposed framework aimed at guiding the political process in Bangladesh, focusing on public approval through a referendum.
Which parties are involved in the discussions?
Key parties involved include the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jamaat-e-Islami, and the National Citizen Party (NCP).
What is the main disagreement among the parties?
The primary disagreement revolves around the timing of the referendum, with some parties favoring a concurrent vote with national elections, while others prefer an earlier date.
When is the final decision expected?
The NCC aims for political parties to sign the July National Charter by October 16.
Why is public approval important?
Public approval is critical as it legitimizes the charter and ensures that the political process aligns with the citizens' expectations and needs.
