Those Advocating for PR in Elections Lack Understanding: Mirza Fakhrul

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has criticised the calls from some political parties for proportional representation (PR) in national elections, stating they neither understand the concept nor its relevance in the Bangladeshi context.

Speaking at a discussion titled “Expectations and Achievements on the Occasion of the Fall of Fascist Murderer Hasina and the Anniversary of the July-24 Revolution”, organised by Zia Parishad at the Jatiya Press Club, Fakhrul asserted:

“Our common people do not understand what proportional representation is. They simply know that a party nominates a candidate—whether it’s the sheaf of paddy or the scale—they go and vote. That is our political reality.”

He added:

“This is why we do not consider proportional representation in the lower house of parliament.”

Bangladesh in Democratic Transition

Fakhrul highlighted that Bangladesh is currently experiencing a transitional phase, emphasising the anticipation for a democratic transformation. He strongly criticised the Awami League, accusing them of dismantling national institutions over the last 15 years:

• Judiciary undermined
• Rule of law compromised
• Health and administrative systems degraded
• Democratic party structures persecuted through torture and repression

BNP’s Reform Vision

Fakhrul reiterated BNP’s commitment to reform, referencing:

• Vision 2030, introduced by Begum Khaleda Zia in 2016
• A 3-point charter for state reform, announced by Tarique Rahman in 2022

According to him, these frameworks offer a roadmap for transformative political and economic change.

“Reforms don’t happen overnight. For example, we can’t expect police bribery to stop tomorrow. But we must build a structure where bribery becomes impossible. Bureaucracy remains a significant hurdle in our development path.”

On Elections and Representation

Emphasising the importance of electoral participation, Fakhrul said:

“The country needs elected representatives. Without elections, where do representatives come from? Without representatives in parliament, how will the rule of the people be established?”

He urged BNP members and the public to embody the ideals of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, stressing integrity and national service. He encouraged Zia Parishad leaders to promote Zia’s values and achievements among the people.

Event Participants

The meeting was presided over by Vice Chairman Professor Shafiqul Islam, standing in for Chairman Professor Abdul Quddus, who was unwell.

Other speakers included: