Referendum law likely within days, says Asif Nazrul

The long-awaited referendum law is set to be enacted within the next few working days, Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul announced on Thursday.

“We are going to enact the referendum law very quickly. We will do it this week,” Dr Nazrul told reporters at a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy on Bailey Road. 

“Today is Thursday – so it will be enacted in the next three to four working days.”

His remarks came a day after Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin expressed frustration over the absence of a legal framework for holding a referendum, saying the Election Commission (EC) cannot proceed with any discussion until the law is in place.

Speaking at a dialogue with political parties at the Election Bhaban in Agargaon on Wednesday, the CEC said that questions about referendum preparations were premature without a proper law.

“We’re talking about a referendum,” he said. “But how to hold a referendum—or whether to hold one at all—depends on the law. Without it, how can I answer these questions?”

He noted that previous referendums in Bangladesh took place under exceptional circumstances:

“Ziaur Rahman held one under martial law, Ershad held one under martial law, and Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed conducted a referendum after formulating a law.”

The CEC stressed that the new legislation must clearly define what matters can be put to a referendum, outline the authority of the Election Commission, and specify the procedures to be followed.

“Once the law is passed, we will be able to speak clearly and act accordingly,” he said.

With the government now pledging swift action, the legal groundwork for any future referendum appears likely to be in place within the coming week.