Even before the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) took power in February, concerns arose regarding the July Charter and the US trade treaty signed during the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government. The Charter is being cited by Opposition parties as a roadmap for democratic reforms, while the trade treaty has triggered domestic protests over its perceived inequality and anti-national aspects, creating a complex situation for the Awami League-led government.
Adding to the pressure, the economic strain in West Asia is compounding issues for Dhaka. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman reassured the nation, urging restraint in spending and emphasizing the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy by providing substantial subsidies in the fuel and energy sector.
The July Charter, agreed upon by over 20 political parties in October 2025 under the Yunus-led caretaker administration, promised significant constitutional and electoral reforms following a mass uprising in July 2024 that ousted Sheikh Hasina’s government. Opposition leaders and civil society groups are now demanding the ruling party fulfill its commitments under the Charter to ensure institutional independence and decentralization, warning of risks to democratic legitimacy if ignored.
