Environmental, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has urged citizens to take part in the upcoming referendum, saying that anyone who genuinely wants reform must vote “yes.”

She made the remarks on Sunday morning while speaking as the chief guest at the DNCC Citizen Award 2025 ceremony organized by Dhaka North City Corporation.

Referring to the fact that both the national parliamentary election and the referendum will be held on February 12, Rizwana Hasan said voters will cast two ballots on the same day, with the second one being for the referendum. She described the referendum as a critical moment to shift the balance of power in Bangladesh away from ruling elites and toward the people. She emphasized that public participation is essential and that meaningful reform requires a clear “yes” vote.

The adviser warned that choosing not to vote, remaining inactive, or voting against the proposals could delay much-needed changes for years. She encouraged citizens to carefully read and understand the reform proposals, noting that the government has prepared awareness materials and explanatory notes to help voters make informed decisions. According to her, those who support reform must actively express their views through the referendum.

Rizwana Hasan also said attempts may be made to intimidate voters and discourage participation, adding that early signs of such efforts have already been observed. She recalled that earlier protest movements failed because fear was not overcome, while recent movements succeeded precisely because people stood up to intimidation. She stressed that resisting fear remains crucial even now.

Highlighting the role of young voters, she said the youth played a decisive part in freeing the country from authoritarian rule and must now be prepared to strengthen democracy through structural reform. She cautioned against complacency, noting that the fall of authoritarianism alone does not automatically ensure democracy. For democracy to take root, citizens must remain alert and exercise their voting rights responsibly.

Congratulating the recipients of the citizen awards in advance, Rizwana Hasan said public recognition brings greater visibility and also greater responsibility, as award recipients are expected to continue serving society with integrity and commitment.

The event was attended by Local Government Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, writer and intellectual Professor Salimullah Khan, Local Government Division Secretary Rezaul Maksud Jahedi, and Dhaka South City Administrator Mahmudul Hasan. The program was chaired by Dhaka North City Administrator Mohammad Ejaz.