Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain, Adviser on Shipping and Labour and Employment, has called on citizens to vote 'Yes' in the upcoming Referendum 2026, describing it as a historic opportunity in Bangladesh’s democratic journey. Speaking on Tuesday, January 20, at a campaign discussion organized by the Panchagarh District Administration at the Panchagarh Government Auditorium, he said the referendum would allow people to directly express their opinions on key state matters and strengthen participatory, transparent, and accountable governance.

He emphasized that the referendum is not merely a formal process but a reflection of the people’s sovereign power. Hossain warned that if the 'No' side wins, the nation could lose the opportunity gained through the July mass uprising. He urged citizens to vote 'Yes' to ensure true empowerment and liberation from past autocratic practices.

The adviser also stressed the importance of public awareness and responsible, fact-based campaigning to ensure the referendum’s success. He assured that the process would follow a clear legal and constitutional framework with transparency and neutrality at every stage.