Referendum cancellation unrelated to July Charter: Law minister

Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Advocate Md Asaduzzaman has said the cancellation of the referendum does not depend on whether the July Charter exists or not.

"The July Charter itself is independent, active and effective. This parliament can implement the July Charter. How the July Charter will be implemented is also stated within the July Charter. Therefore, the cancellation of the referendum has no relation to the July Charter. We have clearly stated this in parliament," he said.

The law minister made the remarks as chief guest at the inauguration of a canal excavation programme in Dhaora village, Shailkupa upazila, Jhenaidah, on Saturday afternoon, April 4.

"BNP carries the July Charter in its heart. BNP holds the July Charter in its consciousness. BNP believes the July Charter was written in the blood of students and people in July-August 2024. BNP believes the July Charter is a charter of liberation for the common people of this country," he said.

The minister said those claiming the July Charter would be cancelled if the referendum is cancelled are spreading false and misleading information. "They say they do not accept the 1972 constitution. We say the 1972 constitution is part of the July Charter. The July Charter is awaiting incorporation into the 1972 constitution."

Regarding fuel prices, he said oil prices have increased and instability has been created in countries around the world due to the war situation. "Oil prices have been increased by nearly 50 per cent in America itself. Oil prices have been increased in Singapore, Malaysia and India, our neighbours. We have kept oil prices at a tolerable level so far. We are assessing how much longer we can continue this way."

He also informed that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will participate in a canal excavation programme in Shailkupa, Jhenaidah, between April 18 and 20.