Dhaka, Oct 09 (V7N) – The National Consensus Commission is in the final stages of finalizing the ‘July National Charter, 2025’, with a formal signing ceremony expected before the end of the commission’s term on October 15, Vice-Chairman Professor Dr. Ali Riaz said on Wednesday night.

Dr. Riaz made the remarks while briefing journalists after the fifth day of the commission’s third-phase discussions, held at the Doel Hall of the Foreign Service Academy in the capital. He said the commission is coordinating with experts and political parties to finalize its advice to the government, which will include a special, comprehensive report detailing the entire process of drafting the charter. The report, he said, is expected to be published by October 18-19.

According to Dr. Riaz, most political parties and alliances are prepared to sign the charter, which is aimed at ensuring structural reforms in governance and constitutional accountability. He said the commission has also discussed the possibility of a referendum to implement the charter, with one part covering issues of broad consensus and another addressing areas of dissent.

“The 13th National Parliament will be empowered to make fundamental constitutional amendments for a specific period to implement the July Charter, 2025,” he said, noting that discussions are ongoing on whether the referendum should coincide with the national elections or be held beforehand.

Dr. Riaz expressed gratitude to the Chief Advisor, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, for his guidance throughout the consensus-building process. “Through this long journey, the charter is now ready for signing. The Chief Advisor has been closely monitoring our progress, offering suggestions and directions, and ensuring the commission fulfills its responsibilities,” he said.

He added that the recent positive changes in Bangladesh’s political culture must continue through unity and national cooperation. “Just signing the charter is not enough. The path ahead is long, and all parties must maintain unity while competing responsibly,” he said.

The fifth meeting of the third phase saw participation from representatives of around 30 political parties and alliances, including BNP, Jatiya Nagorik Party, and AB Party. The meeting was presided over by Vice-Chairman Dr. Ali Riaz, with commission members Dr. Badiul Alam Majumder, Justice Md. Emdadul Haque, Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, and Dr. Md. Ayub Mia present, along with Monir Haider, Special Assistant to the Chief Advisor.

If you want, I can also make a shorter, TV-friendly version highlighting just the key points of the charter signing and referendum for rapid news coverage. Do you want me to do that?