A recent survey conducted by the South Asian Institute of Policy and Governance (SIPG) at North South University reveals that 53% of respondents believe the term of the current interim government should be limited to two years or less.
The survey, titled "National Survey 2024: Citizens' Expectations of the Interim Government of Bangladesh," was conducted across 17 districts in eight divisions between September 9 and 29 and involved 1,869 participants. This marks the first nationally representative survey since the July uprising.
The majority of respondents—63%—were middle-aged, between 28 and 50 years old. About 22% were from Generation Z (ages 18-27), and 14% were over 50 years old.
Urban residents made up 54% of the participants, while 46% were from rural areas.
Key findings from the survey
Fifty-three per cent of respondents believe the interim government should remain in power for two years or less, while 47% think the term should be three years or more.
Forty-six per cent of respondents are undecided about their political affiliation, whereas 54% expressed interest in mainstream politics.
Ninety-six per cent of the respondents support limiting the prime minister's term*.
Forty-six per cent of those surveyed believe the constitution requires significant changes, while 35% feel it only needs minor reforms.
Sixteen per cent support drafting an entirely new constitution, and 3% believe no changes are necessary.
The survey also showed citizens' satisfaction with the interim government's handling of issues, particularly flood management in August and September.
Respondents voiced aspirations for reforms in the Bangladesh Police, education system, political system, and the electoral system.
Speaking as the chief guest, Badiul Alam Majumdar, Secretary of Citizens for Good Governance (Sujan) and head of the Electoral System Reform Commission, emphasised the public’s demand for justice and electoral reforms, saying, “People want those who committed crimes—whether criminal, financial, or electoral—held accountable. Our electoral system is broken and needs to be reformed for fair elections."
Prof Salahuddin M Aminuzzaman, SIPG adviser, and other notable figures were also present at the event.