Bangladesh's 'Yes' Referendum Faces Legal Challenges Over Alleged Fund Misuse
Yunus Govt’s ‘Yes’ Referendum Under Scanner Over Bank Meetings, CSR Funds & Unregistered NGOs
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The 'Yes' referendum campaign in Bangladesh, led by interim Prime Minister Mohammad Yunus, is under legal scrutiny for allegedly misusing banking and state funds to sway voter support. A Supreme Court lawyer has called for an investigation into claims of corruption involving public money and unregistered NGOs.
- 01Legal notice accuses interim government of diverting funds to influence the referendum.
- 02Bangladesh Bank and the Association of Bankers allegedly disbursed nearly Tk 3.7 crore for campaign support.
- 03Concerns raised over the use of corporate social responsibility funds in violation of policy.
- 04Allegations include funding to an unregistered organization, Students Against Discrimination.
- 05The referendum, held in February 2026, aimed to approve a significant reform package.
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The controversial 'Yes' referendum campaign in Bangladesh, which took place before the general elections under the interim government of Mohammad Yunus, is facing legal challenges. A legal notice sent by Bangladesh Supreme Court lawyer Aslam Mia alleges that the government illegally diverted banking and state funds to promote the 'Yes' vote. The notice claims that nearly Tk 3.7 crore (approximately $440,000 USD) was disbursed by Bangladesh Bank and the Association of Bankers to support the campaign. It also highlights that corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds were misused, violating Bangladesh Bank's policy that restricts such funds to education, health, and social welfare initiatives. Additionally, the notice raises concerns about the Students Against Discrimination Foundation, which was allegedly unregistered at the time of funding discussions. The legal notice demands an investigation into these claims within 15 days, warning of potential legal consequences for the interim government. The 'Yes' referendum, held on February 12, 2026, resulted in approximately 68.26% voter approval for the July National Charter 2025, a reform package proposing significant constitutional changes.
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If the allegations are proven true, it could lead to significant legal consequences for the interim government and impact the legitimacy of the referendum results.
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