Mamunul Haque urges 'Yes' vote in referendum for state reform
He called for an independent and effective Election Commission, full independence of the judiciary, depoliticised administration, and zero tolerance against corruption.
Ahead of the 13th national parliamentary election and referendum, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis Ameer Mamunul Haque today (9 February) called on voters to support a "Yes" vote in the referendum, saying it is essential for ensuring meaningful state reform.
In a televised address to the nation aired on Bangladesh Television this afternoon, Mamunul emphasised the need for state reform, justice, a governance system based on fairness, and a transformation of political culture, urging citizens to vote 'Yes' in the referendum supporting the July Charter containing proposals for state reform.
Describing 2008 to 2024 as a "period of deep crisis" for the country, he said, "This was a time of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and abductions, alongside the systematic erosion of the electoral system. In the name of development, the state apparatus was turned into a repressive force."
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Highlighting systemic issues, Mamunul stressed that merely changing the government is meaningless without state reform.
He called for an independent and effective Election Commission, full independence of the judiciary, depoliticised administration, and zero tolerance against corruption.
Addressing young people, he urged prioritising employment, ensuring at least one earning member per family, and implementing job-guarantee programmes. He also promised separate and coordinated welfare policies for women, farmers, workers, and expatriates.
On religion, he said, "Governance will follow the Quran and Sunnah while ensuring full freedom for all citizens to practise their faith."
Regarding the upcoming election, Mamunul said, "Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, as part of the 11-party alliance, is contesting 26 seats under the 'rickshaw' symbol nationwide, while supporting allied parties in other constituencies."
He urged voters to cast their ballots freely and conscientiously, stressing that the election determines not only a change of power but also the future of the next generation.
He also called for votes under the 'rickshaw' symbol to build a just, humane, and fairness-based Bangladesh.
