July Revolution Spirit to Be Upheld Through Referendum: Khalid

Religious Affairs Adviser A F M Khalid Hossain today said the government wants to uphold the spirit of the July revolution through the referendum. "If the people ensure victory by casting 'Yes' votes in the referendum, country-engulfing fascism will no longer be able to raise its head in the country," he said. The adviser made this remark while addressing as the chief guest at the National Imam Conference, organized to campaign for and motivate people in favour of the referendum, at Nimtala here today. 

He said the mentality of clinging to power through farcical elections under the guise of so-called polls in an attempt to retain authority would be wiped out through the referendum. He noted that any fundamental change to the Constitution must be carried out through a referendum by an elected government, adding that a balance of power between the President and the Prime Minister would be created. Speaking about elections, Khalid Hossain said for the first time in the history of Bangladesh, a free, fair and inclusive election would be held. In previous elections, the government decided who would come to power, but this time the party receiving the people's votes will be elected, he added.

"We are all working in a neutral manner," he said, calling upon the people to guard the ballot boxes in the upcoming election. With Habiganj Deputy Commissioner Abu Hasnat Mohammad Arefin in the chair, Superintendent of Police Mst Yasmin Khatun and other senior officials of the administration also spoke on the occasion.