Referendum Is Illegal and Unconstitutional: GM Quader

Jatiya Party (JP) Chairman and Rangpur-3 parliamentary candidate GM Quader on Saturday termed the proposed referendum “illegal and unconstitutional,” alleging that the government is unlawfully promoting the ‘Yes’ vote using state machinery and public funds.
Speaking to journalists during a door-to-door campaign and leaflet distribution at the Payra Chattar–Grand Hotel intersection in Rangpur city, Quader said the issue of a referendum should first be debated in parliament and among the public before any voting is held.
“This matter should be discussed in parliament, outside parliament, at tea stalls, and even on YouTube. People must be properly informed about what is good and what is bad before deciding whether to vote ‘Yes’ or ‘No,’” he said.
“But without explaining all aspects to the people, you are already telling them what to vote. Since this process is not constitutional, I believe this referendum is illegal and invalid.”
Quader also strongly criticised the government’s alleged role in campaigning for the ‘Yes’ vote.
“Those who are speaking in favour of the ‘No’ vote are being branded as allies of autocrats. I want to say that those campaigning for the ‘Yes’ vote are acting like allies of Nazism,” he said.
“Government officials and employees are openly campaigning for the ‘Yes’ vote, which is illegal. The use of public funds for this purpose is also unlawful and unconstitutional.”
During an exchange with reporters, Quader expressed confidence about his electoral prospects in Rangpur-3.
“I am a son of Rangpur. The people of Rangpur will again elect me with a huge majority by voting for the plough symbol,” he said, urging the crowd to ensure his victory once more.
The Jatiya Party chairman formally launched his election campaign on Saturday afternoon. He visited several areas of Rangpur city, distributed leaflets, and sought votes for the party’s electoral symbol, the plough.
Later in the afternoon, Quader held a meeting with party leaders and activists at the district and metropolitan Jatiya Party office on Central Road. He called on party workers to intensify grassroots campaigning and prepare fully for the upcoming election.
Metropolitan Jatiya Party General Secretary SM Yasir and other district and city-level leaders were present during the events.
If you want, Subrata, I can also make:
a shorter news brief version (120–150 words), or
a more neutral wire-style version suitable for international outlets.