Photo: BSS

KHULNA, Jan 7, 2026 (BSS)- A views-exchange meeting on preparations for the 
upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad (JS) election, alongside the campaign for a 
referendum and voter motivation, was held this morning (Wednesday) at the 
conference room of the Deputy Commissioner's Office here.

Joint Secretary of Public Administration Ministry Alamgir Hossain attended 
the meeting as the chief guest with Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer 
of the 13th JS polls A S M Jamshed Khondokar in the chair.

Addressing the meeting, the chief guest said the proposed referendum would 
bring all state structures under a comprehensive reform framework.
 
He noted that the referendum would cover four broad areas, including the 
election-time caretaker government formation of the Election Commission and 
other constitutional bodies; introduction of a bicameral parliament, enhanced 
women's representation in parliament, selection of the Deputy Speaker and 
parliamentary committee chairs from the opposition; protection of fundamental 
rights, independence of the judiciary, the Prime Minister's tenure and the 
powers of the President.
 
He added that the 30 issues outlined in the schedule of the July National 
Charter -- on which consensus has been reached, would be binding on the 
political party winning the next national polls for implementation.

He urged officials of all departments to promote awareness of the referendum 
through their respective social media platforms and among service recipients 
to encourage informed participation.