As Bangladesh casts its vote in the 13th parliamentary election today, voters are also deciding the fate of 84 constitutional reform proposals in a nationwide referendum, marking a historic moment for the country.
Analysts suggest the referendum represents a pivotal moment for Bangladesh’s political future. The outcome will determine not just the composition of the next parliament, but the entire framework within which it operates.
They also argue that combining the two votes could boost turnout, enhancing the credibility of the electoral process.
However, criticisms have emerged regarding the complexity of the referendum’s issues and whether the general public can fully comprehend the stakes before approving or rejecting the proposals.
The referendum stems from the National Charter of July 2024, finalised by the interim government after extensive discussions with major political parties.
In October 2025, the government finalised the 84-point reform package, 48 of which require constitutional changes. These proposals have been grouped into four questions on which voters will cast a simple Yes or No vote.
Key proposals include limiting the prime minister to a maximum of 10 years in office, banning the dual role of prime minister and party head, reinstating the caretaker system, and expanding women’s reserved seats to 100.
The reforms also seek to recognise all mother tongues, introduce a bicameral amendment process, and mandate referenda on certain issues. Additionally, it would establish uninterrupted internet access and data protection as fundamental rights.
Under the proposed changes, the deputy speaker would come from the opposition, and MPs would gain voting independence on most matters, excluding budgets and confidence motions.
“A ‘Yes’ victory in the referendum would transform Bangladesh from the previous system towards a new democratic direction,” said Dilara Choudhury, former professor at Jahangirnagar University and political analyst.
The charter also proposes that emergency powers would require cabinet approval and the presence of the opposition leader, while 35 constitutional clauses would be protected from suspension. The president would be elected through a secret ballot by both houses of parliament and would gain expanded appointment powers.
Security-related treaties would require approval from both chambers of parliament, and an expert panel would assist the Election Commission in drawing constituencies. The process for forming the Election Commission would involve the speaker, deputy speaker, prime minister, opposition leader, and senior judges.
“The approval of the charter would change many things, from executive power and legislative structure to fundamental rights and judicial independence,” Dilara Choudhury told TIMES.
What are the questions?
The first question of the referendum asks whether the caretaker government, the Election Commission, and other constitutional bodies should be reconstituted during election periods in line with the July Charter.
The second question asks whether Bangladesh should adopt a bicameral parliament with a 100-member upper house chosen proportionally by party vote, empowered to approve constitutional amendments.
The third question bundles 30 reform items endorsed by political parties, including higher representation for women, electing the deputy speaker and parliamentary committee chairs from the opposition, introducing term limits for the prime minister, expanding presidential authority, strengthening judicial independence, and increasing local government powers.
The final question asks whether the remaining July Charter reforms should move ahead according to party commitments.
If voters approve the package, the next parliament will be required to implement the reforms within 270 days. However, if the next parliament, acting as the constitutional reform council, does not approve them, the reforms will automatically be incorporated into the constitution. A “No” vote would annul the entire charter.
Would referendum make difference in voter turnout?
Voter participation in recent elections has varied widely. The 2008 election saw a turnout of 87.13%, while the 2014 election, boycotted by the BNP, recorded just 40%. The controversial 2018 election reported 80% participation. However, the 2024 election saw a significant dip, with only 41.8% of voters casting ballots.
Analysts suggest that reaching a 60% turnout would make the election harder to criticise, and the referendum could play a crucial role in achieving that threshold.
“Holding both votes simultaneously will positively impact voter turnout,” said Dilara Choudhury. “Some may go to the polls only to elect members of parliament, while others may be encouraged to vote because of the referendum, ultimately increasing turnout and enhancing the election’s credibility.”
Md Abdul Alim, an election specialist and former member of the Electoral Reform Commission, noted the practical impact of the dual ballot. “Even if a voter is mainly interested in one vote, they still receive both ballots,” he said. “This setup effectively increases voter turnout and can influence the final election outcome.”
From opposition to cautious support
Political parties initially disagreed on the timing of the referendum. Jamaat-e-Islami and its allies advocated for the referendum to be held before the election, while BNP and its partners supported a same-day vote. Despite street protests from the Jamaat coalition, the government held firm, citing cost and logistical concerns as justification for its decision.
The interim government took steps to raise awareness about the referendum and urged people to vote “Yes.” Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus delivered televised messages, emphasising that a “Yes” vote would help reduce inequality and pave the way for significant institutional reforms.
Jamaat, NCP, and similar groups launched their own campaigns in support of a “Yes” vote. Eventually, BNP leaders also joined the call, cautiously backing the referendum.
