Counting for both the general elections and the referendum began on February 12, marking the country’s first vote since the deadly 2024 uprising that reshaped its political landscape.
Clear Majority for Reform
According to Bangladesh’s Election Commission, the referendum recorded a voter turnout of 60.26 percent. Official figures show that 4,80,74,429 voters supported the charter, while 2,25,65,627 voted against it — giving the “yes” campaign a decisive victory.
Election Commission Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed confirmed the results while speaking to reporters, describing the outcome as a clear mandate for constitutional reform.
What Is the July National Charter?
The July National Charter 2025 is a proposed constitutional reform package drafted after the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid widespread protests and violent clashes in 2024.
Named after the July 2024 uprising, the charter aims to introduce sweeping institutional reforms designed to strengthen democracy, ensure good governance, and prevent what reform advocates describe as the recurrence of authoritarian rule.
In the lead-up to the vote, interim leader Muhammad Yunus urged citizens to support the charter, emphasizing that public approval was essential to implement meaningful and lasting reforms.
Key Reforms Proposed
The charter outlines several significant changes to Bangladesh’s political structure:
Creation of a 100-seat upper house in Parliament, with seats allocated based on each party’s national vote share.
Introduction of term limits for prime ministers.
Greater representation of women in Parliament.
Election of opposition leaders as deputy speaker and chairs of parliamentary committees.
Strengthening of presidential powers.
Enhanced independence of the judiciary.
What Happens Next?
With the referendum passed, a Constitutional Reform Council will be established to implement the approved reforms within 180 working days of its first session.
The outcome signals a major political shift for Bangladesh, reflecting voters’ desire for structural change and a more balanced distribution of power within the country’s democratic framework.
