The Advisory Council of the interim government has urged the long-time allied political parties of the anti-fascist movement to hold discussions on their own initiative regarding the referendum and the differences of opinion over several recommendations mentioned in the July National Charter, and to provide a unified directive to the government as soon as possible—preferably within the next week.
The call was made at a meeting of the Advisory Council held on Monday (November 3) at the Chief Adviser’s Office in Tejgaon, Dhaka. The meeting stated that such a directive would facilitate the government’s decision-making process. It also emphasised that, given the current situation, there is no room for delay and that all concerned must keep this in mind.
In addition, the council reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holding the next parliamentary elections in the first half of February 2026.
Following the meeting, Dr Asif Nazrul, Adviser to the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, disclosed the information at a press conference held at the Chief Adviser’s Office.
He said the council meeting discussed the proposed July National Charter formulated by the Consensus Commission, the finalisation of the Constitutional Reform Order, and the arrangements for holding the referendum.
The meeting observed that despite prolonged discussions within the Consensus Commission, differences of opinion remain on several reform recommendations. Concern was also expressed over disagreements among political parties regarding the timing and content of the proposed referendum.
In this context, the council opined that urgent final decisions must be made—based on the Consensus Commission’s recommendations—regarding the referendum’s timing, subject matter, and the differences of opinion mentioned in the July Charter.
Adviser for Road Transport Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Industry Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, and Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam were present at the press conference.