Ignoring referendum demand may push election into crisis: Porwar

The upcoming national election may face a crisis if the demand for a referendum is ignored, said Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar today (7 November).

"An order to implement the July National Charter must be issued immediately, and the date for the referendum must be announced," he said while addressing a voters' rally as the chief guest in Phultala union under the Khulna-5 constituency.

Porwar warned that time is running out, urging all political parties to set aside their notes of dissent and begin preparations for the referendum in the interest of building national unity.

"The people are demanding that the schedule for the referendum be announced before the national election schedule," he added.

Welcoming political dialogue as a means to resolve the ongoing crisis, the Jamaat leader said, "Jamaat-e-Islami has already proposed sitting for talks with all political parties, including the BNP. However, the government must take the responsibility of mediation, and Jamaat is ready to cooperate in this process."

He further said that forming national unity, ensuring a level playing field for all parties, and bringing "criminal and fascist forces" to justice before the polls are essential steps.

Porwar also reaffirmed that Jamaat-e-Islami is prepared to participate in the national election scheduled for February 2026 as announced by the government.