Voters in Bangladesh overwhelmingly supported a national plebiscite known as the “July Charter,” which was part of the historic vote held during the 13th general elections in Bangladesh, where a major step toward political reform was taken as a result of political disruption and change.
The elections on February 12 were historic in many ways. They were the first elections since the uprising of 2024 that overthrew the old political regime; they marked an important break from the political leadership of two large parties (the Awami League and the BNP); and they asked voters to vote in a national referendum for the first time since 1991.
In addition to selecting their new prime minister, citizens were also able to vote on whether or not to adopt the July National Charter, a comprehensive package of constitutional reforms.
What is the July National Charter?
The July National Charter (2025) is a political agreement between 25 political parties and the interim government of Muhammad Yunus, made in August 2024 after the protests during July and August, which caused the previous government to resign.
According to supporters, the charter is a basis for a new system of government which will end the dictatorship in the country and create a strong democratic government.
Electoral Results
- The Election Commission reported 60% turnout for the referendum vote
- Early and legitimate results indicate that 65% of voters supported the referendum through a “Yes” vote.
Once the referendum had been successfully approved, the newly elected Parliament will act as a Constitutional Reform Council and will have 180 working days in which to make the required constitutional reforms to the charter that are included in the July Charter.
Key Proposed Reforms Under July Charter
The charter proposes many substantive changes to the areas of governance, elections, and civil rights.
Increased Limits on Prime Ministerial Powers
- Maximum of 10 years, or two (2) terms, as Prime Minister
- Prime Minister will not be able to serve as a political party leader while serving in government.
- All emergency powers used by the PM must be approved by the Cabinet and Opposition.
Parliamentary Reforms
- Introduction of a bicameral legislature with a new “Upper House”;
- Current Article 70 to be weakened or eliminated to allow Members of Parliament to vote independently;
- A new Deputy Speaker will be appointed from among the Members of the Opposition;
- The number of Women’s Reserved Seats to be increased to 100.
Electoral Reforms
- A non-partisan caretaker government will be created to conduct elections again.
- Oral and written ballots will be used in elections.
- The Election Commission will be a new independent body governed by a group of independent experts.
Judicial and Rights Based Reforms
- Independent Judicial Appointments System
- Issuance of a Supreme Judicial Council
- Recognition of Internet Access and Data Protection as a Fundamental Right
- Limits on Presidential Pardon Authority
Identity & Governance
- Shift in National Identity from Bengali to Bangladeshi
- Recognition of Indigenous Languages
- New Constitutional Principles Related to Equality and Dignity
Anti-Corruption and Administration
- Increased Independence for Oversight Agencies
- Police Reform
- Legal Status for Participants in the 2024 Protests
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Political Context
Through the recent General Election, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party led by Tarique Rahman received a resounding victory. The public’s desire for institutional reform and a stable political system is clearly demonstrated by both the election result and the results of the referendum. Although most parties agreed on the charter, there were factions of students and minor parties that expressed concern about its legality. However, its overall acceptance led to passing it as law.
What’s Next?
Bangladesh has reached an important milestone with the passage of the charter and is now moving into the implementation phase. The key to the success of July Charter will be if political leadership follows through with implementing the constitutional principles that will govern the nation.
The full implementation of these reforms may change the manner in which Bangladesh is governed, decrease executive dominance, and increase checks and balances on democracy. The referendum is much more than just a policy decision to many of the citizens of Bangladesh, it will serve as an attempt by them to reinstate their trust in the borderless community of Bangladesh.
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