Fascist laws, culture not yet uprooted: Charmonai Pir

Islami Andolon Bangladesh Ameer Mufti Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim, widely known as the Charmonai Pir, has said that although Awami fascism has been overthrown, fascist laws, practices and culture still remain in the country.

In a statement on Sunday, January 11, he said the July Charter was formulated to ensure the permanent elimination of fascism from Bangladesh. To give the charter a legal foundation, a referendum will be held, and the people must vote “Yes” to it.

He said the July mass uprising must be protected through a “Yes” vote, and called upon all political parties, candidates and the government to actively build public opinion in favour of the July Charter.

The Charmonai Pir said people did not take to the streets in July only for an election, but for a higher purpose. Although not all public expectations were reflected, much of that spirit has been incorporated into the July Charter. He added that everything, including the current national election, has derived its legitimacy from the July uprising and the July Charter.

He warned that holding the referendum together with the national election has pushed the discussion of the July Charter into the background, which he called disappointing. If overwhelming public support for the charter is not demonstrated, he said, the interim government, the election and the entire political process could come under question.

He also expressed concern that public security has not yet been fully ensured, saying it is essential for holding a free and festive election and urged the government to take effective measures.