Ali Riaz stated that July 16, the death anniversary of Abu Sayeed, had been the expected date for signing the ‘July Charter.’ “Whether it happens on that day now depends on the political parties,” he said. Even if the target date is missed, he added, the Charter will be signed within July. Riaz noted that the Consensus Commission has shifted from its earlier position and accepted many of the parties’ proposals. “Now, the parties must also compromise and move forward,” he added. Emphasizing national unity, he said no political flag flew during the uprising—only Bangladesh’s flag did—so the country’s interests must come first. Riaz also called for constitutional safeguards to prevent any group from unilaterally amending the constitution and for ensuring the independence of constitutional bodies and the judiciary.