Govt officials can campaign for ‘Yes’ vote in referendum: Ali Riaz

Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Prof Ali Riaz has said there is no legal restriction preventing government employees from campaigning in favour of a “Yes” vote in the upcoming referendum.

He clarified that the referendum is not aimed at bringing any political party to power or blocking any party, but is focused on state reforms based on the July National Charter written in blood, which belongs to all people of Bangladesh, said a press release.

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at an exchange meeting with divisional officials and representatives on referendum campaigning and voter mobilisation.

The meeting was held on Saturday morning at the BIAM Foundation auditorium in Dhaka, organised by the Dhaka Divisional Administration.

Ali Riaz said constitutional experts, former judges and legal professionals unanimously agreed that there is no legal obstacle for public servants to campaign for the “Yes” vote.

He warned that claims suggesting otherwise are misleading and driven by ulterior motives.

He also said public servants are not only officials but also citizens, and therefore have a civic responsibility in shaping the future structure of the state. Raising awareness about the referendum and encouraging people to vote falls within that responsibility.

Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser Monir Haider, speaking as a special guest, said 48 constitutional reform recommendations will be placed in the referendum under four categories, but essentially the question is whether people stand for or against the July uprising.

He warned that failure of the referendum could pave the way for the return of fascism.

Senior government officials from Dhaka division, including district commissioners, superintendents of police and other officials, were present at the meeting.