Staff Reporter:  The "July National Charter" is not merely a document, it is a roadmap for Bangladesh's future, as it has been written in exchange for the blood of young people, said Professor Dr. Ali Riaz, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser.

He stated that through the implementation of this charter, the foundation of an accountable and democratic system of governance will be further strengthened.

He made these remarks as the chief guest at an exchange meeting titled "Public Awareness Campaign on the Referendum-2026" held at the Senate Building of Rajshahi University (RU).

Bangladesh's youth continue their struggle with the goal of ensuring that future generations can live in an accountable democratic state system. The referendum, he noted, is an important part of that ongoing struggle. added Prof Ali Riaz

There is nothing in the referendum that ordinary people would fail to understand; rather, the people of the country are ready to say "Yes" in the referendum, also he added.

If around 150,000 university-level students in the Rajshahi division campaign in favour of the referendum over the next seven days and take responsibility for mobilising "yes" votes, it would be highly effective.

To ensure equal opportunities in government employment, the Public Service Commission (PSC) must be made independent within the constitutional framework through the referendum, he continued.

At the same time, he alleged that over the past 16 years, the Anti-Corruption Commission had been turned into a tool for suppressing opposition parties.

He emphasized that implementing the July National Charter is essential to establish an independent and effective Anti-Corruption Commission.

Teachers and students of the university, representatives from various professions, and workers involved with the referendum were present at the exchange meeting.

The objectives, importance, and future impact of the referendum were discussed in detail, and participants were urged to play an active role in raising public awareness.

Prof Ali Riaz called on all concerned to carry out the campaign out of a sense of duty and responsibility to those who lost their lives in July, adding, "People should act on their own initiative instead of waiting for government directives."

Rajshahi University Vice-Chancellor (VC) Saleh Hasan Naqib, along with teachers, senior administrators, RUCSU representatives and students, also spoke at the event.