Mia Golam Parwar, a senior leader of Jamaat-e-Islami, has accused both the current government and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) of a complete reversal on the “July Charter” and the pledged implementation of the “July National Certificate”, calling the shift a 180-degree turnaround.
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Allegations of Political Hypocrisy
Speaking to journalists at Cox’s Bazar Airport on Monday, 23 March 2026, Parwar condemned what he described as political double standards. He argued that the goals of the July Revolution and the commitments attached to the July National Certificate should prioritise the people’s will, yet current actions appear to contradict this principle.
Parwar alleged that, despite earlier assurances not to contest the July Charter, the matter has been indirectly submitted to courts through writ petitions, effectively making it sub-judice. He claimed this manoeuvre is carried out with tacit government support, undermining public confidence.
“Speaking for the people on one hand, while taking contrary steps behind the scenes, is what I would call double standards,” he stated.
Critique of Governance and Law Enforcement
Parwar also criticised the state of law and order in Bangladesh, asserting that the sacrifices made for a new Bangladesh have yet to be reflected in governmental policies.
Highlighting the principle of popular sovereignty, he emphasised that public support during the referendum was stronger than in regular parliamentary elections. He added:
“Law exists for the people, not people for the law. The government must prioritise the people’s will.”
Proposed Measures to Resolve the Crisis
Parwar outlined two key measures to address the ongoing stalemate:
- Swearing-in of the Constitutional Reform Council
- Inclusion of the July National Certificate into the Constitution via Presidential Order
He warned that the government must decide whether the resolution will come through parliamentary processes or force citizens to return to the streets in protest.
Reiterating Jamaat-e-Islami’s commitment as a responsible opposition, Parwar confirmed the party would continue advocating for citizens’ interests both inside parliament and through lawful public action.
Key Points on the July Charter Controversy
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Issue | Implementation of the July National Certificate |
| Alleged Breach | Government & BNP reversing previous commitments |
| Political Criticism | Double standards; sub-judice approach via courts |
| Proposed Mechanism | Constitutional Reform Council; Presidential Order |
| Public Mandate | Greater support observed in referendum vs. parliamentary elections |
| Jamaat-e-Islami Position | Advocate for citizens’ rights; act as responsible opposition |
| Warning | Government must choose between parliamentary solution or mass protests |
Parwar’s statements underline the heightened political tension surrounding the July Charter, highlighting a gap between government actions and public expectations. His remarks suggest that, unless addressed, the issue could trigger significant citizen mobilisation in pursuit of constitutional and civic accountability.
Source: Jamaat-e-Islami statement, 23 March 2026, Cox’s Bazar