Nation Divided Again Over Referendum and PR Demands Ahead of Election: Salahuddin

Khabor Wala Desk

Published: 6th October 2025, 10:17 AM

Nation Divided Again Over Referendum and PR Demands Ahead of Election: Salahuddin

Salahuddin Ahmed, a member of the Standing Committee of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has expressed concern that the nation is once again becoming divided over demands for a referendum and proportional representation (PR) ahead of a fair and acceptable national election.

He made these remarks on Monday (6 October) while delivering the keynote speech at a discussion session organised by Nagorik Jubo Oikko at the National Press Club.

Key Points from Salahuddin Ahmed’s Speech

Issue	Comment
Referendum on July Charter Implementation	“Most people are in agreement to seek public opinion on implementing the July Charter. Some say a referendum must come first. Those who wish to delay the elections are posing an electoral challenge,” he stated.
Public Preparedness	“The people are eager for free and fair elections. If anyone attempts irregularities, the public themselves will resist. The role of law enforcement here will be secondary.”
Banning Political Parties	Salahuddin warned against banning political parties via executive orders, describing it as a dangerous precedent. “Decisions on banning political parties should follow judicial processes. On 5 August, the people declared that fascist politics is prohibited in the country. For international legitimacy, it must be done through the judiciary.”

Mahmudur Rahman Manna, President of Nagorik Oikko, emphasised: “There should be no question of whether an election will happen or not. Elections will take place. The only way to move beyond the current situation is through elections. Countries like Sri Lanka and Nepal did not follow the path of reform, which stabilised their situation. We, however, increased problems by walking the reform path incorrectly.”

Rashed Khan, General Secretary of the Gonodhikar Parishad, added: “Those whom Nahid Islam and others trusted have betrayed the nation. What do advisers know about a people’s uprising?”

He further warned: “Do we have to risk our lives again for reform? It is impossible to hold a free and fair election under the current administration. In the same day’s national election and the vote on implementing the July Charter, Jamaat did not agree. While there was positive consensus within the Election Commission, Jamaat changed its stance outside. Implementation of PR in the lower house is not feasible in this country. The movement for PR is creating opportunities for fascists. If elections proceed amid division, it will be sabotaged by the Awami League and India.”