Bangladesh Bank (BB) has issued formal instructions to commercial banks to conduct public awareness campaigns in support of a “Yes” vote in the upcoming referendum, according to a circular released on Monday, January 26.
The directive, issued by the central bank’s Banking Regulation and Policy Department-1, requires all bank branches and sub-branches across the country to display banners in prominent locations to inform the public about the referendum on constitutional reform proposals included in the “July National Charter 2025.” In line with guidance from the Chief Adviser’s Office dated January 5, 2025, banks have been advised to print and display two vertical banners at each branch.
Sources said that the move follows a meeting between Bangladesh Bank Governor and managing directors of commercial banks, where support for the “Yes” vote was encouraged. While several banks began implementing the initiative, others sought written instructions before participating. The central bank subsequently issued the formal circular.
In recent days, banners promoting a “Yes” vote have been observed at multiple branches of state-owned banks, including Sonali Bank, Rupali Bank, Agrani Bank, and Janata Bank, particularly in Dhaka.
The banners highlight the 2026 referendum and parliamentary election and emphasize public participation in shaping governance institutions such as the caretaker government, Election Commission, and Public Service Commission through cooperation between the ruling and opposition parties.
The circular identifies 12 key issues for public awareness campaigns and includes sample banner designs.
The proposed reforms include restrictions on unilateral constitutional amendments, mandatory referendums for major constitutional changes, selection of the deputy speaker and key parliamentary committee chairs from the opposition, a 10-year limit on the prime minister’s tenure, gradual increases in women’s representation in parliament, formation of an upper house to maintain balance of power, strengthening judicial independence, expansion of fundamental rights including protection against internet shutdowns, limits on presidential pardon powers, and the establishment of a balance of authority between the president and the prime minister.
EAR/MHK