Country Can’t Be Run by Hired Foreigners: Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stated that expecting the National Consensus Commission to meet with political parties and bring about foundational reform of the state is unrealistic. According to him, “A nation cannot be run by hiring a few individuals from abroad.”

He made these remarks during a discussion held today (Saturday, 26 July) at the National Press Club in Dhaka. The event was organised by Zia Parishad under the title “Downfall of Fascist Killer Hasina and Anniversary of the July-August Uprising.”

Mirza Fakhrul said:

“Many believe a few individuals involved in reform will conduct meetings, implement reforms, and push the people forward. But reforms do not happen this way — reform is a continuous and procedural effort.”

On BNP’s Election Demand

Touching on BNP’s long-standing demand for elections, he noted:

“People often overlook why we want elections. Without an election, how will we elect representatives? And without elected representatives, how will they enter parliament? Without parliament, how will democratic governance be established?”

He further questioned:

“Can a country be governed by hiring a few individuals from home and abroad? It cannot. This simple truth must be understood.”

Criticism of Proportional Representation (PR)

Mirza Fakhrul criticised the increasing discussion around the Proportional Representation (PR) voting system, labelling the idea as chaotic in the context of Bangladesh.

“Currently, Bangladesh is facing a confusing situation. A few individuals and parties have started promoting systems that have no relevance here.”

He expressed doubt about the people’s understanding of PR:

“They’re insisting on PR-based elections. But does the general public understand what proportional elections mean? They only know that a party nominates a candidate, and they vote for the candidate using a symbol like paddy sheaf, scales, or leaves. That’s what an election means to them.”

He added:

“If you ask ordinary citizens what PR means, they won’t be able to answer. Those of us involved in politics try to grasp it to some extent.”

Nation at a Crossroads

Mirza Fakhrul declared that Bangladesh is at a critical juncture:

“The entire nation has reached a turning point. We are now seeking a path towards democratic transition. Bangladesh is in a severe crisis — we are facing both a political vacuum and an adverse economic situation.”

He emphasised the need for a new political and economic framework:

“We must devise a structure that benefits the people of Bangladesh.”

On Awami League’s Role

Fakhrul heavily criticised the Awami League, describing it as a fascist force:

“The damage done by the Awami League cannot be easily repaired. They have destroyed every institution — not only the judiciary, administration, health sector, and universities, but also the political parties.”

Participants at the Event

The meeting was chaired by Professor Shafiqul Islam, Vice-Chairman of Zia Parishad. Other speakers included:

The discussion reflected BNP’s discontent with the current political state and its demands for structural and democratic reforms through transparent electoral processes.