Interim govt's intention regarding July Charter unclear: Altaf Parvez

Independent researcher and writer Altaf Parvez has said that serious divisions have emerged in national politics over the July Charter and its implementation order, adding that the government itself has created the current split.

"The government's intention is unclear," he told The Business Standard. "If the government wants to intensify political conflict, there is nothing more to say," he added.

He warned that escalating political instability and confrontations will further discourage investors.

"There has already been no foreign investment for the past year, nor domestic investment. Unemployment and poverty are rising like a vicious cycle, creating social unrest," he said.

"We can see its reflection on social media, where right-wing groups are deliberately spreading propaganda and misinformation to occupy political space."

Parvez said that in most countries, political parties and governments take initiatives to resolve divisions when they arise.

"But in Bangladesh, if steps are being taken to deepen the current political uncertainty, that is extremely alarming," he added.

He also expressed concern that some 'notes of dissent' from the Consensus Commission's 48 recommendations have been included in the upcoming referendum.

"Everyone had assumed that the referendum would only cover issues agreed upon by all political parties. But now, by including dissenting issues, the government has created a suspicious and worrying situation," he said.

"The government is putting citizens in a difficult position by seeking public opinion on 48 different issues through a single 'Yes/No' vote. Such a process will only add to the risks and confusion for the people," Parvez added.