DST News: The government has officially published the gazette for the “July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order, 2025,” marking a key step toward holding a nationwide referendum on major constitutional reforms outlined in the July National Charter.
According to the notification, the referendum—meant to “exercise the sovereign power of the people”—will be conducted on the same day as the upcoming national parliamentary election. The Election Commission will supervise the vote, ensuring secrecy and fairness under newly enacted legislation specific to this purpose.
Earlier, President Md Shahabuddin signed the Order, paving the way for the referendum to decide on a series of transformative changes, including the formation of a bicameral legislature with an upper house of 100 members, proportional representation for political parties, and term limits for the Prime Minister.
The gazette details that 30 reform proposals have been incorporated into the Charter, covering key areas such as:
- Increasing the number of women’s seats in Parliament,
- Electing the Deputy Speaker and several parliamentary committee heads from the opposition,
- Strengthening the powers of the President,
- Guaranteeing judicial independence and fundamental rights, and
- Promoting effective local government.
These proposals, once approved by referendum, will be binding for all political parties forming the next government.
Referendum Ballot Question
Voters will be asked:
“Do you consent to the July National Charter (Constitution Reforms) Implementation Order, 2025, and the related proposals outlined in the July National Charter?” (Yes/No)
Formation of the Constitutional Reform Council
If the majority votes ‘Yes,’ a Constitutional Reform Council—comprising the newly elected members of Parliament—will be established. This body will function simultaneously as the Jatiya Sangsad and the Constitution Reform Council, tasked with completing all reform work within 180 working days of its first session.
The Council will elect its Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson during its inaugural meeting, and meetings will require at least 60 members for quorum. Decisions on constitutional amendments will need a majority vote from all members, with the Chairperson holding a casting vote in case of a tie.
Upper House and Implementation
Following the reforms, an Upper House of 100 members will be constituted within 30 working days based on proportional representation of votes received by political parties in the lower house elections. The tenure of the Upper House will run parallel to that of the Jatiya Sangsad.
The government will publish the revised Constitution and the final text of reforms in the official gazette immediately after their adoption. Necessary directives will be issued to implement the provisions of this Order and ensure a smooth transition to the new constitutional framework.
The publication of this gazette signals the beginning of one of Bangladesh’s most significant political reform processes in decades—aimed at reshaping governance, enhancing accountability, and institutionalizing shared political responsibility through the July National Charter.
Source: BSS
